At Dental Care Today in Fishers, we want to help our patients understand oral health issues and related topics, such as the complexity and importance of your saliva.
Yes, saliva – a subject and substance that makes some people cringe. Saliva is, in fact, a finely balanced body fluid that not only maintains dental health, but aids in digestion.
Its main components are:
- Water. No surprise here! You saliva consists mostly of water.
- Enzymes. Enzymes are essential biological catalysts that speed chemical reactions. The enzymes in saliva begin the process of digestion.
- Immunoproteins. These are dynamic cells that fight cellular invaders, such as bacteria. Those in saliva inhibit the overgrowth of microbes in the mouth. This is essential to avoiding gingivitis and keeping a healthy pH balance in the mouth.
- Minerals. Saliva minerals assist in maintaining the protective enamel surface of the teeth.
Most people produce enough saliva, but some suffer from dry mouth, which is a lack of saliva. It It is a known side effect of hundreds of commonly used medicines.
Dry mouth, known formally as xerostomia, can cause the gums, tongue, and other oral tissues to become swollen and uncomfortable. Just as bad, germs thrive in a dry mouth. If this is an issue for you, please let us know right away.
At Dental Care Today in Fishers, we provide general and cosmetic dentistry. As a family practice, we treat patients of all ages. We are also a mercury-free practice. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Contact Dental Care Today PC – E. Dale Behner DDS:
317-842-2337
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
9744 Lantern Rd
Fishers, Indiana
46037
