11/10/2025
Saliva and the science of a healthy smile.
Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy mouth. It is far more than a lubricant; it is a dynamic biological fluid that supports every aspect of oral health. Saliva continuously supplies calcium, phosphate, and bicarbonate, helping to protect and remineralize enamel while buffering acids that lead to demineralization. It also contains antimicrobial components such as lysozymes, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulins that help control bacterial growth and maintain a balanced oral microbiome.
Adequate salivary flow is essential for comfort, speech, swallowing, and digestion. Reduced flow can increase the risk of caries, periodontal disease, and oral discomfort. Recognizing the signs of xerostomia and educating patients about hydration, medication side effects, and saliva substitutes can greatly improve clinical outcomes.
Saliva is also gaining importance as a diagnostic tool for detecting systemic conditions and early disease markers. Understanding its functions allows dental professionals to take a more holistic approach to patient care.
Join the conversation. What strategies have helped your patients manage dry mouth or maintain healthy saliva flow?
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Frontier Dental breaks down how this everyday biofluid could shape the future of faster, smarter diagnostics. Read the full post on our blog and discover what’s ahead for preventive care. 🔗https://na3.hubs.ly/y0blmc0
