We’re sure you already know what saliva is – it’s the watery liquid that’s always present in your mouth, released by hundreds of tiny salivary glands all over your mouth, lips and tongue. But what you may not know is that, despite being 99% water, your saliva plays an important role in both your oral health and overall quality of life. Without it, you would have difficulties swallowing or tasting food, and your teeth would be much more vulnerable to tooth decay and cavities.  

So, what all does saliva do for you, and what makes it so important?

Well, to start with, saliva stimulates your taste buds, giving you the ability to taste and enjoy your favourite foods. It also plays a key role in your ability to swallow, as saliva protects the mucus membranes in your mouth and throat, providing a layer of lubrication that allows food to travel down your esophagus to your stomach.  

Saliva also aids in digestion thanks to amylase, an enzyme that helps to break down food before it even reaches your stomach. Speaking of enzymes, saliva also contains lysozyme, an enzyme that kills bacteria and helps keep your mouth clean by preventing the growth and spread of harmful microbes. Saliva also helps maintain your mouth's pH balance, limiting the harm caused by ingesting acidic food and drink (though it can’t prevent tooth decay on its own).  

Since saliva is so important to your oral health, you won’t be surprised to hear that not having enough saliva, a condition known as dry mouth, can be a big problem. Chronic dry mouth can lead to difficulty swallowing, chewing or even speaking. It can leave your lips cracked and your mouth feeling sticky and unpleasant. It can even lead to more serious health problems like mouth sores or gum disease.  

If you’re suffering from dry mouth, don’t worry – we can help! There are a number of tips and techniques that your dentist might recommend to help control or alleviate dry mouth, depending on the cause. Just use the orange “Book Online” button on our website to schedule an appointment today.  

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