Saliva, Its More Than Just Spit!
Saliva and its functions are something we generally take for granted as is the case with most things bodily when they are working well. However when your production of saliva is less than adequate it can present a number of genuine difficulties and health concerns.
The bulk of your saliva is derived from three pairs of glands in your mouth, the parotid, sublingual, and submandibular. These glands produce approximately three-quarters of a teaspoon every minute, and during mastication (chewing), this level can increase to one tablespoon per minute. This provides lubrication to your mouth and throat to aid chewing and swallowing of foods, as well it cleanses your mouth of food debris. It also acts as a protective layer on natural dentition bathing the teeth with minerals to help prevent cavities. The enzymes in saliva work to limit bacterial viral and fungal growth, which can lead to infections and tooth decay. One of the noticeable side effects of dry mouth can be bad breath as this bacteria normally held in check begins to flourish. Saliva also provides the critical moisture throughout the oral cavity that allows us to speak clearly. Just think of trying to whistle with a completely dry mouth.
For denture wearers it has the important function of providing lubrication between the denture and oral tissue, reducing friction that might otherwise cause irritation. Patients with dry mouth also have a much more difficult time with retention as the deficiency in moisture creates fewer capillaries to hold and seal your denture into place. Think of how well a dry suction cup works at gripping a surface compared to moistening it before application.
What causes a loss in saliva? The most common reason I see in our clinic is medications. It has been suggested that more than four hundred commonly prescribed drugs such as antidepressants, pain relievers, blood pressure, asthma, sinus, and allergy medications can cause dry mouth. Patients who are undergoing radiation treatment for cancer, in the head and neck region, may also notice a large change in the amount of saliva being produced. The major salivary glands can be damaged by this therapy. There are also a number of diseases that can impinge upon production such as diabetes, scleroderma, sjogren's and others.
Some of the symptoms of dry mouth and lack of saliva can be as follows:
- Dry or Cracked lips
- Persistent Thirst
- Difficulty Chewing
- Frequent Sore Spots Under Dentures
- Denture Retention has Dramatically Decreased
- Bad Breath
- Difficulty Swallowing Food
If any of these seem familiar it might be worth a trip to your doctor or dental practitioner for a check up. Fortunately in many cases a decrease in saliva will be short in duration. For those with a more persistent condition there are products available such as Salivart and Oral Balance which when applied in the mouth provide temporary lubrication. There are also medications, Salagen being one, that can stimulate your glands to increase flow.