Today we are going to review the complexity and importance of your saliva. This typically yucky substance is, in reality, a finely balanced body fluid that not only maintains dental health but also assists in the digestion of your food.
So, without further ado, here are the main components of saliva.
1. Water. No surprise here! Your saliva is comprised of water, for the most part.
2. Enzymes. Enzymes are vital biological catalysts that speed chemical reactions. The enzymes in saliva begin the process of digestion.
3. Immunoproteins. These are powerful cells that fight invaders, such as bacteria. The immunoproteins in saliva curb the overgrowth of microbes in the mouth. This is vital for avoiding gingivitis and keeping the proper pH balance in the mouth.
4. Minerals. Saliva minerals help with maintaining the protective enamel surface of the teeth.
Most people produce enough saliva, but some suffer from dry mouth, which is a lack of saliva. This can be detrimental to your dental health, so be sure to meet with your dentist if you are experiencing this.
If you are in the Grandview Heights, Hilliard, or Dublin area and are in search of quality dental care, please call our office today at 614-451-2100. Our caring staff would be happy to talk to you about our successful services, which include:
cosmetic dentistry
6 month smiles
Inman aligners
sedation dentistry
Contact Mark A. Miely DDS:
614-451-2100
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1840 Zollinger Rd
Upper Arlington, Ohio
43221