Saliva
A Dental Caries Risk Factor
Saliva is an important factor in the prevention of dental caries. Human saliva is composed mostly of water and helps to breakdown starch and fats within foods. Saliva also breaks down food caught in the teeth, protecting them from bacteria that cause decay. Furthermore, saliva lubricates and protects the teeth, the tongue, and the soft tissues inside the mouth. Saliva is an extremely important component needed to neutralize the mouth and acids produced by bacteria. Healthy saliva is vital to dental health and the prevention of tooth decay.
New Saliva Test Kit from Essology
Why test the pH of saliva?
To establish if the saliva is naturally acidic or alkaline? New acid neutralizing treatment pathways could make a world of difference for specific patients.
The take home saliva test kit is an effective way to help educate patients of the importance of pH and oral health. Simply test drinks, mouth rinses, water, saliva to better appreciate the potential impact they have on dental health.
Could the patient benefit from an acid neutraiizing preventative plan?it effectively buffer acidswhich encourages cariogenic bacterial growth
Medications and Saliva
There are many medications that can affect salivary flow and dental health. This can pose an increased risk for dental caries and development of cavities. The term MIX (Medically Induced Xerostomia) was first introduced by Edwin Zinman, DDS, JD, a former Periodontist who now runs a law firm that specializes in dental malpractice services.
Medications that cause Dry Mouth
There are also systemic conditions such as Sjogren’s Syndrome, and medical treatments like chemo and radiation therapy that can cause Xerostomia, or dry mouth and throat conditions. Taking increased preventative measures to maintain oral health is recommended and can be a positive way to help correct the bacterial imbalance caused by limited saliva production. Saliva replacement products and mouth moisturing sprays that condition the soft tissue and neutralize the harmful affects of acid bacteria can be of great benefit to many patients.
