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The functions of saliva.

I D Mandel

    Journal of Dental Research
    |February 1, 1987
    PubMed
    Summary

    Saliva is crucial for oral health, aiding digestion, lubrication, and tissue protection. Its absence causes significant discomfort and challenges, highlighting its vital role in maintaining oral well-being.

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    Area of Science:

    • Physiology
    • Oral Biology

    Background:

    • Salivary glands perform diverse functions across species, from venom production to digestive aid.
    • In humans, while not immediately life-threatening, saliva loss causes significant oral discomfort and functional impairment.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To elucidate the multifaceted roles of saliva in human oral health and well-being.
    • To detail the protective and functional mechanisms saliva provides for oral tissues and overall health.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of existing literature on salivary gland functions and the impact of saliva.
    • Analysis of the biochemical and immunological components of saliva and their roles.

    Main Results:

    • Saliva is essential for food preparation, mastication, swallowing, and taste perception.
    • It provides lubrication and protection against desiccation, ulceration, and carcinogens via mucin and anti-proteases.
    • Saliva maintains oral ecological balance through lavage, immune/non-immune aggregation, and direct antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral activities.
    • It regulates oral pH, plaque pH, neutralizes reflux acids, and aids tooth integrity through cleansing and enamel maturation.

    Conclusions:

    • Saliva is indispensable for oral comfort, function, and health in humans, despite not being essential for immediate survival.
    • Its complex composition provides critical protective mechanisms for soft and hard oral tissues, and contributes to systemic health by maintaining oral homeostasis.

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