Key functions of Saliva

One of the goals in the prevention of caries is to promote natural protective salivary mechanisms.

1. Protect the oral tissues, and that surrounding the oral cavity by:

• Antimicrobial (degrading some bacterial cell walls and preventing growth) and cleansing action

• Lubrication

• Sugar dilution

• Buffering and controlling pH via bicarbonate

• Tissue repair

• Enamel remineralisation with calcium and phosphate

2. Facilitate speech and mastication by:

• Digestion via enzymes

• Food prep, enhancing chewing, clearing residues and swallowing

• Lubricating oral tissues

• Taste enhancement

Refs:

https://www.nature.com/articles/bdjteam2015123

https://biologydictionary.net/salivary-glands/