We often take for granted things that seem simple: salivating at the smell of delicious food, savoring every flavor of a good meal…
Saliva is a constant companion throughout our day, but sometimes the glands responsible for its production don’t function properly, or certain physical conditions reduce oral hydration.
So, what can you do in these cases? Let’s explore what saliva is and how to manage situations when the body doesn’t produce enough of it.
What Is Saliva
Saliva is a tasteless, odorless, and colorless fluid (or at least it should be under normal conditions) produced by the salivary glands. These glands are located inside the mouth: the smallest, the sublingual glands, sit beneath the tongue, as their name suggests; the submandibular glands, responsible for about 70% of saliva production, are located at the base of the tongue and along the lower jaw. Finally, the parotid glands, the largest in terms of volume, produce roughly 25% of total saliva and are situated within the cheeks. The secretion they produce is mainly liquid, consisting of about 99% water. The remaining 1% contains various substances, including minerals, proteins and glycoproteins, immunoglobulins, and enzymes.
Together, these components work in synergy to carry out the many functions of saliva. But
Protection for the Mouth and Teeth: thanks to its content of minerals and especially bicarbonate, saliva acts as a natural antacid, reducing the buildup of bacterial plaque on the teeth and thereby lowering the risk of cavities. More broadly, it helps create an environment unfavorable to the growth of microorganisms on the mucosa, contributing to the protection of overall health.
Swallowing and Digestion: as the saying goes, digestion begins in the mouth, thanks to the enzymes present in saliva. The combined action of chewing and saliva forms the food bolus, making it easier to swallow. Saliva’s lubricating effect also softens even the hardest foods, reducing the risk of scratches and injuries to the oral mucosa.
The Sense of Taste: saliva plays a crucial role in accurately perceiving flavors, as its liquid consistency helps disperse flavor molecules and make them accessible to the taste buds.
What Happens When Saliva Isn’t Enough?
When saliva production is insufficient, it can lead to the unpleasant sensation of dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. This condition can result from various factors and may be a symptom of a wide range of underlying health issues.
Even minor factors can reduce saliva production: not drinking enough fluids or consuming foods that are too high in salt can lead to dehydration, which manifests as xerostomia. Aging also plays a role, as people naturally tend to drink less and salivary gland function declines. Even a simple cold with nasal congestion can force you to sleep with your mouth open, leaving your oral mucosa dry and irritated.
Many medications list dry mouth as a side effect, from common ones like antihistamines, corticosteroids, and blood pressure medications to more intensive treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Xerostomia can also be a symptom of systemic diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, or lupus, as well as conditions localized to the mouth, like oral candidiasis or Sjogren’s syndrome.
Artificial Saliva: A Remedy for a Well-Hydrated Mouth
To support proper saliva production, it’s important to stay well-hydrated throughout the day, choosing non-alcoholic and sugar-free beverages – water, herbal teas, and infusions are ideal. Limiting coffee and overly salty foods, and quitting smoking, are also very helpful measures.
Oral hygiene deserves special attention: brushing your teeth after each meal and opting for alcohol-free mouthwashes are key steps.
However, when the salivary glands don’t cooperate, artificial saliva can come to the rescue. Unlike stimulants, this product doesn’t increase natural saliva production; instead, it replaces the functions of natural saliva, acting as a lubricant, hydrator, and protector of oral health. Its ingredients are strictly natural, designed to closely mimic the structure of saliva itself.
Artificial saliva is available in various forms, including Cariex®, a spray that provides immediate relief for dry mouth or mucosal discomfort, such as oral thrush – especially helpful for children. Just a few sprays, a handful of seconds, and the discomfort finally eases.