Do you drool in your sleep? Does your mouth water at the scent of freshly baked cookies? This is because of the production of saliva in your mouth. Saliva is more than 99% water. The remaining composition of saliva includes enzymes, proteins, and electrolytes. The enzymes in saliva, specifically amylase, help to break down the carbs and starches you eat, so your body can use them for energy. Beyond digestion, saliva is also important in maintaining oral health. Let’s find out how.
Saliva, produced by the salivary glands in the mouth, actually contains some antibacterial and antimicrobial substances. By coating your teeth and gums, saliva can prevent infections. In fact, saliva has the potential to fight off many pathogens and illnesses from a cold to HIV to fungal growths. In addition, saliva can remove small pieces of food that get stuck in your teeth, preventing tooth decay. In animals, like mice, the presence of a protein called nerve growth factor in the saliva has been shown to help speed up the wound healing process when animals lick their wounds. A similar result has yet to be explored for humans, but the antibacterial properties of our saliva can help disinfect wounds.
Image Source: Amy Frazier
Some foods or drinks (such as orange juice) can make the mouth a more acidic environment, damaging teeth enamel. Saliva is able to buffer and neutralize these changes in pH to protect teeth from decay. In addition, saliva contains minerals like calcium and fluoride, which help rebuild the tooth enamel, restoring it after damage.
While saliva plays a very large and important role in helping to maintain health and wellness, it can’t do the whole job alone. Brushing and flossing regularly are the two most important aspects of oral hygiene. We can work to prevent infections and even control larger conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease by actively protecting our teeth, gums, and mouths.
Feature Image Source: Tongue by M&R Glasgow
