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Unless you have an issue with too little or too much, saliva is not something most people give much thought to. However, you may be surprised to know how important of a role saliva plays in your dental health. Halitosis, dry mouth, and bacteria are all problems that occur when your saliva production is not up to par. Your Riverside dentists at Riverside Dental Group, would like to challenges you to a quiz on your saliva glands to give you the full scope of the benefits this fluid offers to your oral health.

Questions

Q1. True or false – Dry mouth is a completely harmless condition and can be cured with proper hydration.

Q2. True or false – Most saliva production occurs in the middle of the night, while you sleep.

Q3. True or false – There are hundreds of small major salivary glands throughout your mouth.

Q4. True or false – Saliva helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Answers

A1. FALSE – Dry mouth can actually cause inflammation and lead to tooth decay. Causes of dry mouth include smoking, side-effects of medication, dehydration, and certain illnesses (such as Parkinson’s and diabetes). Drinking plenty of water is one way to combat dry mouth, but the problem may persist. If you feel you are consuming enough liquids and your saliva production is still less-than-desirable, you should see your Riverside dentists to investigate the issue.

A2. FALSE – The body makes up to 4 pints of saliva every single day. Most of that is produced in afternoon hours. While you sleep, your salivary glands generally take a break with you.

A3. FALSE – There are only six major salivary glands inside your mouth. They are backed up by hundreds of minor salivary glands, however. These glands are located throughout your mouth, but mainly inside your cheeks, near your front teeth, and in the bottom of your mouth.

A4. TRUE – Saliva doesn’t just help us swallow what we eat, but also works to rid the mouth of residual food particles. When food and bacteria mix, plaque is created, and tooth decay can follow. There are minerals and proteins in saliva that serve to protect your tooth enamel to further fight off cavities.

Dental Checkups from Riverside Dentists

If you are an existing or new patient interested in dental checkup, you can contact your Riverside dentists. We are happy to offer comprehensive dentistry for the whole family. Contact our 92506 dentist office at (951) 369-1001. We serve patients throughout Riverside County.