Saliva is a transparent, watery secretion produced by salivary glands in the mouth. Ninety-nine percent of its composition is water. The remaining one percent contains mucus, enzymes, microbial agents, and electrolytes.
Saliva serves various critical bodily functions and processes, some of which are often overlooked. They include:
Oral Lubrication
One obvious function of saliva is lubricating the mouth. Saliva prevents your tongue, lips, and cheeks from clamping together. Without this lubricating quality of saliva, essential functions like speech, smiling, and eating would be uncomfortable, if not impossible.
Digestion
Saliva plays a vital role in digestion. The digestive process starts in the mouth, where chunks of food are broken down into smaller chunks through biting and chewing. Saliva also makes food pliable and wet, allowing you to swallow more easily.
Protects Against Tooth Decay
Another critical area where saliva comes into play is tooth decay prevention. Bacteria in the mouth can secrete acids that erode the enamel and cause cavities. Saliva acts as a neutralizing agent for these acids, protecting teeth against decay. It also contains mineralizing agents such as calcium, fluoride, and phosphate minerals, which help reverse early-stage tooth decay.
Aids in Wound Repair
Saliva helps speed up the healing process for bite wounds and oral sores. It contains large quantities of vascular endothelial and epidermal growth factors, which speed up tissue repair and regeneration.
Prevents Dental Conditions
People who do not produce enough saliva are at risk of developing dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. This condition increases the risk of gum disease and dental caries by providing germs with favorable conditions to thrive. A dry mouth can lead to bad breath and oral discomfort. You may also notice a change in how food tastes.
Saliva is essential for proper oral function, comfort, and dental health. For this reason, it is vital to maintain habits that stimulate more saliva production. These may include drinking water frequently or chewing sugar-free gum. Contact us today for additional tips on combating dry mouth.
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Discover A Reason to Smile | Masci & Hale Restorative Dentistry Our experienced team offers patients a reason to smile via comprehensive dental exams, general and cosmetic dentistry, and teeth whitening. Learn more here! Masci, Hale & Wilson Advanced Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry, 2134 State Route 208, Montgomery, NY 12549 - 845-769-0160 - areasontosmile.com - 4/27/2024 - Tags: dentist Montgomery NY -
Saliva is a transparent, watery secretion produced by salivary glands in the mouth. Ninety-nine percent of its composition is water. The remaining one percent contains mucus, enzymes, microbial agents, and electrolytes. 
