Saliva: Protection Against Cavities
Did you know saliva protects you from cavities? Since it’s made up of enzymes, proteins, and minerals, it plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy. Your spit is also a way for your body to communicate a variety of responses. Read on to learn more!
The Ultimate Defender
Cavities develop from acidic build-up produced by bacteria and food. After eating, saliva flow fights off potential cavities by helping clear food debris, neutralizing remaining acids, and remineralizing your tooth enamel. Antibacterial compounds in saliva will also ward off bad breath germs! It’s amazing to learn how our spit is protecting us from so much!
The Dangers of Dry Mouth
So what happens if you have a lack of saliva? If you experience dry mouth, this is a red flag for your oral health! A dry mouth leaves your teeth without protection and can result in a higher risk for cavities and gum disease. Unfortunately, as we get older, our saliva production decreases. Medications, dehydration, and certain diseases can also reduce saliva flow.
Tips For Increasing Saliva
On the bright side, here are some simple tips you can do to help increase your saliva flow:
- Sip water throughout the day
- Chew sugar-free gum
- Take over-the-counter saliva substitutes like sprays or drops
If you’ve been struggling with dry mouth, don’t wait to book an appointment with our team at Bright Now! Dental. Explain your symptoms to one of our experienced dentists and they’ll come up with a treatment plan that targets your needs!
