You probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about your spit. However, saliva is immensely important when it comes to your overall health. Comprised mostly of water and made by a number of glands in your mouth, saliva is a master at multitasking. In fact, it is like your very own oral health superhero! Read on to learn a some spit-tastic facts.

Saliva 101

Strengthens Teeth

Your mouth produces spit 24/7, which fortifies your enamel with important minerals, like fluoride, phosphate, and calcium. These minerals help reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Freshens Breath & Fights Infection

It contains enzymes that minimize bad breath and the effects of germs, which in turn helps you fight off infection.

Prevents Discomfort

A moist mouth is much more pleasant than a dry one! Think about that parched feeling you have when you first wake up. Don’t you just crave a sip of water? Your body produces less saliva over night since you aren’t drinking water. Hydration is vital for all aspects of health, including your oral health.

Aids Digestion

It’s involved in the first phase of digestion. Amylase, a digestive enzyme in saliva, begins breaking down your dietary carbohydrates, and food moistened by saliva is easier to swallow.

Reduces Tooth Decay

The flow of saliva helps to wash away food particles after eating so the sugars don’t linger on your teeth. Sugar is fuel for bacteria, which create enamel-destroying acids when feeding. A mouth cleaned by saliva, daily brushing and flossing, and regular dental visits will have less tooth decay and fewer cavities.

Contains Important Information

Spit samples can be used to collect information about your DNA, hormone levels, and inflammation throughout the body.

Dry Mouth

Temporarily experiencing a lack of saliva is common for a number of people when they are anxious or stressed. But if mouth dryness becomes a constant issue (known as dry mouth or xerostomia), it might indicate something is wrong. Start by increasing your water intake since dehydration prohibits adequate saliva production. Not having enough spit could lead to infection, tooth decay, and digestion problems, so be sure to consult with your primary care physician and our expert team here at Middletown Commons Family Dental. We can help determine the cause of your dry mouth and recommend how to resolve it.