Q: Why is saliva important?
A: Most of the moisture in your mouth comes from three pairs of major salivary glands and many minor glands. Saliva is a mixture of water, mucus and other substances. Its most important function is to moisten and bind food together into a ball, or bolus, that allows us to swallow it. And food wouldn't taste very good without saliva since taste buds on the tongue react only to moist food. When you're not eating, the salivary glands release a small but steady amount of liquid. When you're eating, and sometimes even getting ready to eat, the production picks up. Certainly you've had some "mouth-watering" meals.
Saliva also helps keep your mouth clean by washing away food particles. Since it is slightly alkaline, it neutralizes some of the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. It also contains calcium and phosphorous which helps strengthen the teeth's enamel. Your dentist can tell you more about the role of saliva and how to keep your mouth functioning properly.
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