Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation of the Drooling Quotient (DQ) score with
the questionnaire-based Drooling Severity and Frequency Scale (DSFS) and the number of bib changes in
a day. It is hypothesized that there is a significant positive correlation between these methods of
assessment.
Methods: Using a prospectively collected database from a cohort of one hundred and fifty five children
referred to our saliva management clinic, a comparison of the following three measurements was made
to assess the level of correlation between them: (1) Drooling Quotient (DQ) (performed in two 10-min
sessions), (2) Drooling Severity and Frequency Scale (DSFS) (as judged by parents or caregivers) (3)
number of bib changes (as reported by parents or caregivers).
Results: The results showed that there is a high level of agreement between the Drooling Quotient and
the Drooling Severity and Frequency Scale. However, the Drooling Quotient and number of bib changes
did not show significant correlation.
Conclusions: The Drooling Severity and Frequency Scale (DSFS) has been shown to be a quick and
accurate measure of drooling that can be used to help guide clinical management of drooling,
particularly in patients who are unable to undergo the Drooling Quotient assessment