Saliva contains buffering systems that help neutralize acidic foods and drinks to protect teeth and soft oral tissues from acid attacks. Saliva also can cause microbes to clump together so they can be swallowed before they become attached to the surfaces of teeth and soft oral tissues.īarrier and Buffering Agent: Saliva provides an effective barrier against drying and helps limit the penetration of physical irritants, toxins and carcinogens in foods, beverages and tobacco.

Waste Removal: The physical flow of saliva helps remove disease-causing viruses, bacteria and yeast from teeth and soft oral surfaces. The primary roles and benefits of saliva include: Saliva also keeps oral tissues healthy by preventing infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. Saliva helps remove oral waste and cavity-causing bacteria, protects teeth from decay by neutralizing harmful acids, and helps re-mineralize tooth enamel. Saliva coats and lubricates tissues in the mouth, making it easier to speak, chew and swallow. Saliva, Oral Health and Disease Protection The “mouth-watering” taste and consistency of foods also affect saliva production. It causes muscles to compress the salivary glands, releasing saliva. Chewing is the most efficient way to stimulate salivary flow. Saliva is produced and secreted by major and minor salivary glands lining the inner lip and soft palate. Among the body’s defense mechanisms, saliva works to lubricate, digest and protect. Saliva is a fluid that flows throughout the mouth, playing an important role in bolstering and maintaining the health of oral soft and hard tissues.

Home remedy for hypersalivation