Salivary glands are often disregarded yet they play a vital role in both digestive and oral health. Saliva is a clear liquid in the mouth that ensures that the mouth stays orally lubricated. Saliva is not only made of water but also other components needed for digestion and maintaining healthy teeth.
What Is The Significance Of Saliva In Oral Health?
Saliva ensures that the mouth remains saturated. A well-lubricated mouth provides a pleasant atmosphere for the health of soft and hard tissues in the mouth. Saliva contains many minerals that are essential in plummeting acidity in the mouth. When sugar is broken down in the mouth it converts to acid that can eat away the enamel and therefore cause tooth decay. Saliva comes in handy to reduce this acidity not just from sugary foods but from everything that you consume. Saliva is slippery. The slimy nature is essential for lubricating food as you chew.
Digestion begins in the mouth. As such, well-chewed and moist food easily passes through the esophagus to the stomach. Enzymes in the saliva make it easy to break down complex food substances. When food is properly broken down, it lessens the chances of particles getting stuck in the teeth leading to cavities and gum disease as a result of plaque accumulation. Saliva also helps to ensure that dentures remain securely in place.
Conditions That Affect The Salivary Glands
Salivary glands can swell when exposed to viral infection in the mouth. Hence little saliva is produced. Too little saliva is not good for oral health. It can cause a dry mouth which makes the gums and other tissues swell. When the gums are dry and swollen, it can lead to bad breath. In summary, good oral health ensures the sufficient flow of saliva, and as a result conditions such as dental caries and other infections are averted. Many things can affect your salivary glands. Consider reaching out to us today for assistance.
Salivary glands are often disregarded yet they play a vital role in both digestive and oral health. Saliva is a clear liquid in the mouth that ensures that the mouth stays orally lubricated. Saliva is not only made of water but also other components needed for digestion and maintaining healthy teeth.