Definition: saliva

This secretion is around 15 g per hour. Certain flavours, such as certain acids and salts, increase salivation. The salivary flow of an adult is around 1 litre per day, but it is important to note that we salivate more when standing or lying down, less when sitting, more in winter than in summer, and very little at night. In terms of composition, saliva is a mixture of water, proteins, electrolytes and mineral salts.

Saliva is a valuable ally for those who talk a lot: it lubricates the mucous membranes and teeth, making it easier to speak. Another role of saliva is to prepare for digestion. When mixed with the food we chew, saliva forms a "bolus", a kind of ball that slides easily down our oesophagus. In addition, the chemical action of saliva transforms certain components of food to make them more easily assimilated by our body. This is, in fact, a form of pre-digestion.

Saliva plays an active role in maintaining the balance and protecting the oral cavity. Its antibacterial properties limit the proliferation of bacteria and eliminate unwanted microorganisms. Here, saliva acts as a border post that controls all entries and fights against microbial invasions.

Not only does saliva facilitate speech, digestion and the protection of our oral balance, it also has repairing properties. The cavities that attack our teeth are the result of the formation of acids from food. Saliva plays an essential role in this process. It regulates the pH of our mouth and prevents acid attacks on our teeth. Better still, the mineral ions contained in saliva contribute to the remineralisation of enamel. Saliva can therefore help to repair the damage caused by acid attacks.

Recent studies have shown that increased saliva flow contributes to good dental health. Why? Simply because saliva neutralises the acids that attack our teeth. After eating, the pH of our mouth becomes acidic and the risk of tooth decay increases. There are several ways to raise the pH: brushing your teeth, rinsing your mouth or chewing sugar-free gum. The latter solution is very stimulating for saliva and is an interesting option because it combines the useful with the pleasant! However, it should not replace brushing, which remains the essential oral hygiene practice.