The Role of Saliva in Oral Health: More Important Than You Think
Most people don’t give much thought to saliva—until they have too much, too little, or a reason to see the dentist. But saliva plays a much bigger role in your oral health than you might realize. In fact, this underappreciated fluid is your mouth’s first line of defense.
At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we take a whole-mouth approach to dental care. That means we pay attention to more than just your teeth and gums—we look at everything, including your saliva. From preventing cavities to helping you digest food; saliva has some serious responsibilities. Let’s take a closer look at why it matters, what can go wrong, and how you can support healthy saliva flow every day.
What Is Saliva, Exactly?
Saliva is a clear fluid produced primarily by three major salivary glands—parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. On average, your body produces between 0.5 to 1.5 liters of saliva per day.
It’s made up of 99% water, but the remaining 1% contains a powerful mix of enzymes, electrolytes, proteins, mucus, and antibacterial compounds. That combination does far more than just keep your mouth from feeling dry.
Saliva Superpowers: Why It Matters
Here are just a few of the ways saliva helps keep your teeth, gums, and body functioning at their best:
1. Protects Against Cavities
This liquid acts as a natural buffer against harmful bacteria. It helps wash away food particles, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and deliver minerals like calcium and phosphate to your teeth—re-mineralizing enamel and preventing tooth decay.
Without enough oral moisture, harmful bacteria can flourish, and acid can erode your enamel much faster. That’s why people with chronic dry mouth (xerostomia) are at a much higher risk for cavities.
2. Neutralizes Acid
Every time you eat, the pH level in your mouth drops—especially after consuming sugary or acidic foods. Saliva helps bring your oral pH back to a neutral state, reducing the risk of enamel erosion.
This buffering action is essential for long-term dental health. It’s also one reason we often recommend waiting 30 minutes before brushing after eating acidic foods. Saliva needs time to do its job first.
3. Aids Digestion
Saliva contains enzymes like amylase and lipase, which start the digestive process as soon as food enters your mouth. These enzymes break down starches and fats, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients further along in the digestive system.
So if you’ve ever wondered why thorough chewing is so important—it’s partly because it gives mouth moisture time to start digestion.
4. Prevents Bad Breath
By washing away food debris and neutralizing odor-causing bacteria, saliva is a key player in keeping your breath fresh. When saliva flow is reduced (such as during sleep or due to dehydration), bacteria build up more quickly—hence morning breath.
5. Promotes Tissue Repair
Saliva contains proteins and growth factors that help with wound healing. It aids in repairing minor cuts and sores in your mouth, such as those caused by braces, biting your cheek, or dental work.
What Causes Low Saliva Flow?
Saliva production can decrease for a variety of reasons, and the effects can be more than just uncomfortable. If you regularly experience dry mouth, it’s worth discussing with your Glendora dentist. Some common causes include:
- Medications (especially antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure meds)
- Dehydration
- Autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome
- Radiation or chemotherapy
- Diabetes
- Smoking or vaping
Nerve damage to the head or neck
If you’re not producing enough saliva, you may notice symptoms like:
- Persistent dry or sticky feeling in your mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Dry or cracked lips
- Burning sensations on your tongue
- Increased tooth decay or gum disease
- Frequent sore throats
How to Support Healthy Saliva Flow
Here are some easy ways to keep your saliva production strong and steady:
1. Stay Hydrated
It may sound obvious, but drinking plenty of water is the simplest and most effective way to support saliva production. Aim for 8 glasses per day—or more if you live in a dry climate or exercise frequently.
2. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing stimulates saliva flow, especially when it contains xylitol—a natural sugar substitute that also fights cavity-causing bacteria.
3. Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol
Both tobacco and alcohol dry out the mouth and impair your salivary glands’ function. Cutting back—or quitting—can significantly improve your oral environment.
4. Limit Caffeine and Salty Foods
Excessive caffeine and sodium intake can dehydrate you, which reduces saliva production. Balance your diet with fruits and vegetables that are naturally hydrating.
5. Use a Humidifier
Dry indoor air can worsen dry mouth, especially overnight. A humidifier in your bedroom can help keep your mouth and airways moist while you sleep.
6. Talk to Your Dentist
If dry mouth is persistent or severe, we can recommend saliva substitutes, special toothpaste, or prescription medications that stimulate saliva production. We can also assess whether your medications or health conditions are contributing to the issue.
Saliva
What We Look at During Checkups
When you visit us for a dental exam, we’re not just looking at your teeth—we’re observing your entire oral ecosystem, including your saliva.
Is it flowing normally? Is your mouth dry? Are we seeing unusual signs of enamel wear, gum inflammation, or increased plaque? These can all be clues that your saliva isn’t doing its job, and early intervention is key.
At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we believe that preventive care is just as important as treatment. That’s why conversations about hydration, dry mouth, and your daily habits are an important part of your appointment.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, and materials. Everything we use makes a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We help our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.