This post from Mason Dental in Grapevine discusses the complexity and importance of saliva. This typically yucky substance is a finely balance body fluid that not only maintains dental health but also keeps your mouth comfortable and aids in digestion of food.
The components of human saliva include:
- Water. No surprise here! You 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 powerful 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.
On average, each of us makes from two to four pints of saliva each and every day. That’s a whole lot of spit. Most of it is made in the late afternoon, and very little is made overnight as you sleep.
Some people suffer from a condition called dry mouth, or xerostomia, which is a lack of saliva. This can be detrimental to your dental health, causing the tongue, gums, and other tissue to become swollen. That makes them a breeding ground for germs. If you have dry mouth, or even suspect you might, be sure to let us know. You don’t have to wait for your next six-month checkup. Just pick up the phone and call.
At Mason Dental in Grapevine, the state of your dental health is important to us. We provide general and cosmetic dentistry, oral cancer screenings, and restorative dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today.
Contact Mason Dental – Cosmetic & Family Dentistry:
817-481-4717
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
801 W Wall St
Grapevine, Texas
76051
