Today we are going to consider 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 critical 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 inhibit the overgrowth of microbes in the mouth. This is critical for avoiding gingivitis and keeping the appropriate 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 Encinitas, Escondido, or Vista area and are in search of quality dental care, please call our office today at 760-633-3033. Our committed-to-excellence staff would be happy to talk to you about our celebrated services, which include:
Invisalign
implant-supported dentures
porcelain veneers
sedation dentistry
Contact La Costa Dental Excellence:
760-633-3033
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7730 Rancho Santa Fe Rd Ste 106
Carlsbad, California
92009