Saliva
Saliva, known scientifically as (Saliva), is a viscous liquid secreted from the mouth. Water constitutes approximately 99% of its composition, making it the primary component. Saliva plays a crucial role in the digestive process by breaking down food debris in the mouth through the secretion of various enzymes found in the mouth and throat. This enzymatic activity aids in swallowing food with ease, alleviates dry mouth conditions, and helps protect against dental cavities caused by bacteria that accumulate on the surface and along the gums and teeth.
The secretion of saliva is regulated by several glands located in the head, most of which are situated in the mouth. These glands can be classified into three main types: the parotid glands located beneath the ears, the sublingual glands situated under the tongue, and the submandibular glands located beneath the jaw. The submandibular glands are specifically responsible for controlling the viscosity and quantity of saliva produced in the mouth.
Causes of Increased Salivation
There are numerous factors that can lead to an increase in saliva production, including:
- The presence of foreign objects in the mouth, typically remnants of food lodged between the teeth or in their crevices.
- Dental fractures, which stimulate the mouth to produce more saliva in the areas of broken teeth to protect against bacterial infection.
- The formation of abscesses or bacterial cysts in the gums and root areas of the teeth, prompting the mouth to secrete saliva as a natural defense against bacteria.
- Gastrointestinal and intestinal infections caused by viral agents, where excess saliva helps eliminate any viruses that may enter the mouth.
- Respiratory infections, often linked to nasal congestion during sleep or throat inflammation.
- Dental surgeries, which can trigger saliva production in larger quantities to prevent post-operative infections.
- Nervous system issues, such as stress, which can contribute to increased saliva production.
- Saliva may also emerge as a side effect of certain medications like analgesics or antibiotics.
- Inhalation of gaseous substances, which stimulates saliva production to maintain moisture in the mouth and throat.
Components of Saliva
Saliva comprises several liquid components, nutrients, and enzymes, including:
- Water, the primary constituent of saliva.
- Essential elements and minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphate, iodine, and others.
- Antibacterial agents, including lysozyme and lactoferrin.
- A variety of proteins, the most notable being vitamin B12.
- Enzymes like amylase and kallikrein.
- Cells, comprising both beneficial cells and bacteria, with a total exceeding 8 million cells.
Functions of Saliva
Saliva serves several important functions, including:
- Maintaining the pH balance within the mouth, which assists in regulating salt concentration in saliva through the secretion of buffering enzymes that mitigate acid effects.
- Contributing to the health of the taste buds by releasing hormones that protect them and facilitate their functions.
- Keeping the tissues of the mouth and jaw hydrated, promoting overall oral health.