Posted on 9/16/2024 by Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona
Having enough saliva in your mouth is vital for good oral health. Saliva protects your teeth and gums in many ways. Read below to understand the importance of saliva.
It Washes Away Food
Each day, your mouth produces around 2-6 cups of saliva. An important job of saliva is to rinse away and swallow leftover food particles. Food particles left in the mouth can decay teeth and infect gums. Saliva washes debris away before damage occurs.
It Neutralizes Acids
Saliva helps cancel out acids produced by bacteria in the mouth or from acidic foods. These acids erode tooth enamel and irritate gum tissues. Saliva neutralizes acids to protect teeth and gums. This keeps the mouth at a normal pH balance.
It Lubricates the Mouth
Saliva contains mucus, which acts to coat and lubricate tissues in the mouth, throat, and tongue. This lubrication allows you to chew, swallow, and speak more comfortably. It prevents friction that would otherwise irritate soft oral tissues.
It Kills Some Bacteria
Saliva contains antibodies and antimicrobial enzymes that kill some harmful bacteria in the mouth. This helps prevent cavities, gum infections, and other oral health issues caused by bacteria. The proteins in saliva inhibit bacterial growth.
It Facilitates Taste
The liquid medium of saliva allows taste buds on the tongue to detect flavors from foods and beverages. A dry mouth makes it more difficult to pick up sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and savory tastes. Staying hydrated ensures adequate saliva for tasting foods.
It Aids in Digestion
Saliva begins breaking down starches and fats in food right in the mouth. Enzymes in saliva, like amylase, start the digestion process so nutrients can be easily absorbed in the stomach and intestines. Swallowing saliva sends pre-processed food down to be fully digested.
Stay Hydrated for Healthy Saliva Flow
Saliva is vital for cleansing the mouth, protecting teeth, making eating comfortable, and starting digestion. Keep your saliva flowing by drinking water consistently throughout the day.
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Periodontist Phoenix, AZ - About Us - Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona At Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center AZ, our team offers high-quality and affordable treatment options for patients with oral health problems. Call us today! Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona, 4455 E. Camelback Rd #E-100, Phoenix, AZ 85018, (480) 504-0506, azimplantsolutions.com, 10/5/2024, Related Terms: Periodontist Phoenix AZ,
Having enough saliva in your mouth is vital for good oral health. Saliva protects your teeth and gums in many ways. Read below to understand the importance of saliva.