Year : 2022

Volume : Volume 13

Issue : Issue 5

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Ravi Kumar Seth
dr.raviseth@gmail.com

Abstract

Saliva is a complex fluid which is secreted by the salivary glands. While the quantity of saliva is important, so is its quality, as each of its components performs a series of specific functions. Adequate salivary flow and composition are recognized as important for lubrication and protection of soft and hard oral tissues. Protection of soft tissues is provided against desiccation, penetration, ulceration, and potential carcinogens by mucin and anti-proteases. This is achieved through clearance, aggregation, and reduced adherence by both immunological and non-immunological means as well as direct antimicrobial activity. Saliva is effective in maintaining pH in the oral cavity by its buffer capacity and contributes to the regulation of dental biofilm pH and enamel surface integrity. The wide spectrum of molecules present in saliva provides valuable information for clinical diagnostic applications. The advantage of salivary diagnostics is that it offers an easy, inexpensive, painless, and stress free approach to disease detection. Hence, in this paper, we aim to review the components of saliva, its functions in maintaining oral health, and the main factors that cause alterations in saliva secretion and its role as a potential diagnostic tool.

Keywords: Saliva, Diagnostic tool, Oral health, Salivary biomarkers.