saliva

Function

• protective oral cleanser with antibacterial action
• buffer than inhibits demineralization
• lubricant
• transport medium to taste sensors
• aids in chewing, swallowing, digestion & speech

Physiology

• secreted into the oral cavity by salivary glands, especially parotid glands after parasympathetic stimulation
• normal daily secretion: 1-2 liters
• contains electrolytes, mucin, digestive enzymes including amylase

Laboratory

• Electrolyte content:
  • salivary Na+: 10 mmol/L
  • salivary K+: 30 mmol/L
  • salivary Cl-: 10 mmol/L
  • salivary HCO3-: 30 mmol/L

More general terms

• extracellular compartment (extracellular space)
• body fluid

Additional terms

• salivary gland
• salivary gland disease
• salivation
• sialorrhea; hypersalivation; ptyalism
• xerostomia (asialism, aptyalism, dry mouth, hyposalivation)

Components

• salivary bacteria