Saliva may seem simple, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining overall body health, particularly oral health. The primary function of saliva is to aid in digestion. When we eat, saliva begins working by moistening food, making it easier to chew and swallow. Additionally, enzymes in saliva, such as amylase, help break down carbohydrates into simpler sugars, initiating the digestive process even before food reaches the stomach.
Beyond its role in digestion, saliva also functions as a natural protector for teeth and the mouth. Containing antibacterial compounds and minerals like calcium and phosphate, saliva helps protect tooth enamel from damage. This is essential for preventing tooth decay and reducing the risk of gum disease. Indirectly, saliva acts as a defense mechanism against oral infections by continuously rinsing bacteria and food particles from the oral cavity.
Moreover, saliva plays a role in maintaining the pH balance in the mouth. When we consume acidic foods or drinks, saliva works to neutralize the acidity, protecting teeth from acid erosion. This process helps maintain long-term oral health and prevents bad breath caused by bacteria thriving in an acidic environment.
Another benefit of saliva is its ability to accelerate wound healing. Enzymes found in saliva, such as epidermal growth factor, can help speed up tissue regeneration, allowing small oral wounds to heal faster than wounds in other areas of the body. This demonstrates how multifunctional saliva is in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Prof. Dr. drg. Juni Handajani, M.Kes, Ph.D. , in her speech at the inauguration as a professor at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, explained that saliva, as part of the oral cavity, plays a vital role in maintaining oral health and the body's defense. “Saliva is known as a mirror that reflects the condition of the oral cavity and systemic health,” she said.
Overall, saliva plays a much broader role than just aiding digestion. It protects teeth, maintains the chemical balance in the mouth, and even supports the healing process. Maintaining oral health and ensuring adequate saliva production, such as by drinking enough water, is one way to keep the body's functions optimized.
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan
Photo: Freepik
