In this blog post from OKC Smiles in Oklahoma City, we are going to discuss 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 aids in digestion of your food. So, without further ado, here are the main components of saliva.
- Water. No surprise here! Your saliva consists mostly of water.
- Enzymes. Enzymes are vital biological catalysts that speed chemical reactions. The enzymes in saliva begin the process of digestion.
- Immunoproteins. These are effective cells that fight cellular invaders, such as bacteria. Those in saliva inhibit the overgrowth of microbes in the mouth. This is essential to avoiding gingivitis and keeping a healthy pH balance in the mouth.
- Minerals. Saliva minerals assist in maintaining the protective enamel surface of the teeth.
Most of us produce enough saliva, but some suffer from dry mouth, which is a lack of saliva. It is, in fact, a common side effect for some medications. This can be detrimental to your dental health, so be sure to meet with your Oklahoma City dentist if you are experiencing this.
At OKC Smiles in Oklahoma City, the dental health of our patients is our top priority – saliva, and all! We offer a wide range of general dentistry procedures, and treat issues like TMJ/TMD. Schedule an appointment with us today!
Contact OKC Smiles:
405-634-7303
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
13900 S Western Ave, Suite 300
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
73170
