The importance of saliva

Saliva – what you need to know about keeping your mouth healthy

Maintaining a healthy mouth is important for your overall health. Saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy, by helping to protect your teeth and gums from bacteria and other harmful substances.

What is saliva made of?

Saliva is a clear, thin fluid that is produced in the salivary glands. It contains water, enzymes, minerals, white blood cells, enzymes and antimicrobial agents.

How does saliva help to keep me healthy?

Saliva helps to protect your teeth and gums from bacteria and other harmful substances. It also helps to keep your mouth moist, which can help to prevent bad breath. Saliva also contains enzymes that help to break down food, so that you can digest it properly.

How does saliva protect my teeth and gums?

The enzymes in saliva can break down food particles and bacteria, which helps to prevent plaque build-up on your teeth. The minerals in saliva can also help to strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay. Saliva also helps to keep your gums healthy by reducing the amount of bacteria that can attach to them.

What if I don’t produce enough saliva?

If you don’t produce enough saliva, you may be at risk of developing dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. You can increase the amount of saliva in your mouth by sucking on sugar-free candy or chewing sugar-free gum. You can also drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth hydrated.

Is it bad if my mouth produces too much saliva?

Excessive saliva production is called hypersalivation. It can be caused by a number of different factors, such as certain medications, allergies, Excessive saliva production can also lead to drooling and bad breath. If you are experiencing excessive saliva production, you should consult your doctor for advice.

You can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth by avoiding acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and soft drinks.

So there you have it – who knew that saliva was so important! As always, make sure to keep your mouth healthy by drinking plenty of water, brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups.

If you would like further information or would like to book a consultation, call us on 07 5591 3620 or use our online form.