Oral Mucosa in Health and Disease by Lesley Ann Bergmeier

Author:Lesley Ann Bergmeier
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Springer International Publishing, Cham

7.1 Saliva

Saliva is uniquely adapted to the functions it needs to perform in the oral cavity [2]. It continually bathes the hard and soft tissues to maintain the healthy tissues of the oral cavity, oropharynx, and larynx [2]. Saliva is formed by three pairs of major salivary glands, namely parotid, submandibular, and sublingual, and hundreds of minor salivary glands, with some of the GCF being secreted from the gingival sulcus [3]. The presence of saliva in the oral cavity is vital for the maintenance of healthy teeth and oral tissues (Fig. 7.1). Its secretion is mediated by the parasympathetic and sympathetic nerve supply, and its type and volume are controlled by the autonomic nervous system [4]. The easy and noninvasive collection and diagnosis of saliva have facilitated extensive research into carrier susceptibility, physiological and pathological changes, and monitoring levels of hormones, drugs, ions, antibodies, and microorganisms.

Fig. 7.1Schematic of how saliva and GCF defend against infection by microorganisms in the mouth. In relation to the two surfaces of the mouth (teeth and mucosa; inner circle) saliva functions (outer circle) can be grouped. Further explanation is provided in the outermost section of each function

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