Your saliva isn’t something you readily think about or discuss with others, but did you know it’s essential to keeping your mouth and body healthy? It’s true; saliva plays a role in your digestion, keeps you from getting bad breath and helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
So, why is saliva so important? Please keep reading to learn more about the role it plays in your oral health.
What Is Saliva?
Saliva is produced by the salivary glands inside your cheeks and under your tongue. It moves into your mouth from your salivary glands through small tubes known as salivary ducts.
A continuous stream of saliva is produced, but more is produced when you eat, and it’s possible to produce up to four pints each day. You may not realise how important saliva is to your health. Although it’s mostly water, it also contains the following essential ingredients:
- Proteins
- Enzymes
- Minerals
- Electrolytes
- Antibacterial compounds
Saliva’s Many Functions
Saliva plays a crucial role in helping you maintain your oral health. Here are some of its many functions, making it essential to keeping you healthy:
- Protection — Saliva protects your tooth enamel and oral tissues from damage and wear.
- Lubrication — Saliva lubricates your mouth, making chewing and swallowing more comfortable. Without it, eating would be extremely difficult.
- Cleansing — Saliva fights bacterial growth and keeps your mouth clean. It also deters bad breath.
- Neutralisation — Saliva neutralises harmful acids and can help prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease.
- Remineralisation — Saliva works to remineralise your teeth because it contains calcium, phosphate and fluoride ions.
- Dilution — Saliva dilutes sugars after you drink or eat, helping you avoid cavities.
- Healing — Saliva can speed up the healing process in your mouth.
Questions about Your Oral Health in Doreen, VIC?
If you want more information about saliva’s role in oral health, we will happily take your call! At Doreen Dental Clinic, we strive to educate our patients so they can achieve the healthiest teeth and gums possible.
To arrange an appointment or ask a question, feel free to call us on (03) 8735 7359. We hope to hear from you soon.