What is the Importance of Saliva in Protecting Against Tooth Decay? 

Oral health is essential; therefore, we are always advised to brush our teeth twice daily and floss regularly. However, in this process, we often neglect the important thing, and that is the importance of saliva. It is one of the most powerful natural defenses against tooth decay. It helps our mouth to keep it free from dryness and creating other related problems.

If you are unaware of the importance of saliva, then in this article, we will discuss the significant importance of saliva to protect against tooth decay. If you are in Arlington Heights, you can consult a Dentist in Arlington Heights, IL, to learn more about the significance of saliva. 

What consists of saliva? 

Saliva, as it is seen as water, is 99% water but is the most important part of oral health. There is water content, which includes calcium, phosphorus, and fluoride. Thus, this combination of minerals works greatly for the teeth and keeps them healthy. 

This saliva is created by the three pairs of salivary glands in the cheeks, jawbone, and tongue, as well as some other minor glands that produce the saliva. 

How Does Saliva Work to Protect the Teeth? 

There is the release of acids from the food we consume, which can affect the enamel. Thus, at this moment, we need saliva to protect our teeth. As it is water content with other minerals, it washes away the harmful acid and repairs the enamel, known as the remineralization process. 

It helps in the digestion of food because when you eat, the digestion process begins in the mouth itself. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase that breaks down the sugar into small pieces and helps people swallow easily to avoid choking. Thus, this is the important process through which saliva makes our eating and digestion easy. 

What will the condition of the mouth be without saliva? 

If there is no saliva or less formation of saliva, then there will be a condition of dry mouth or xerostomia. There will be a high probability of gum disease and tooth decay with this condition. This situation can leave your mouth vulnerable to bacteria, yeast, and fungi. It makes it harder for us to swallow and digest food easily and affects our enamel. 

Dry mouth can also lead to bad breath problems; therefore, it is better to consult an expert doctor for treatment if you have severe issues.