What does “Saliva” mean?
Saliva is the fluid secreted by the salivary glands that moistens the mouth. It helps with chewing and swallowing, protects the teeth and oral lining, and helps wash away food and microbial residue.
Original spelling: 침
Protects teeth and mucous membranes
Saliva washes away food residue from the mouth and supplies minerals to the tooth surface. It adds moisture to food, makes it easier to swallow, and is also involved in taste.
What changes when saliva production decreases?
If secretion is insufficient, dry mouth and difficulty chewing and swallowing may occur. The risk of cavities and oral infections can also increase, so check the cause of repeated dry mouth along with oral care.
How to manage dry mouth
Sipping water, using sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva when appropriate, or using saliva substitutes may help. Medicines or diseases may be involved, so do not stop prescribed medication on your own; discuss the cause with your healthcare team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I brush my teeth less if I have saliva?
Saliva protects your mouth, but it is not a substitute for brushing and interdental care to remove plaque. Oral care and salivary function are necessary together.
Will drinking water solve all dry mouth problems?
If your mouth is dry due to lack of water, drinking water may help. If the cause is drugs or salivary gland disease, the cause should be evaluated along with hydration.
Questions needed to understand saliva
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Care after treatment
Does dry mouth affect your ability to eat or speak?
Explanation and evidenceDescribe when discomfort occurs and whether it recurs so saliva production can be assessed.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research · Saliva and Salivary Gland Disorders - A choice suited to your condition
Did you differentiate between managing the cause and relieving dryness?
Explanation and evidenceWe consider symptom management, including hydration and saliva substitutes, as well as drug and disease evaluation.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research · Saliva and Salivary Gland Disorders
