Clinical aspects of salivary biology for the dental clinician

foods and drinks, and preventing erosion caused by episodes of prolonged exposure to weak acids (e.g. wines and black cola softdrinks) or short-term exposure to strong acids (e.g. reflux and vomiting). • serving as a reservoir for ions (calcium, phosphorus, and fluoride) for remineralization • controlling the oral microflora, through immunological (IgA), enzymatic, peptide and chemical mediators (Edgar et al. 1994; Walsh 2000, Brostek et al. 2006). Salivary stimulation elicited reflexively by taste and mastication leads to an increase in the pH and buffering capacity (due primarily to elevated levels of bicarbonate), as well as supersaturation of saliva with calcium and phosphate. These factors influence the balance between enamel demineralization and remineralization. The importance of stimulated salivary flow rate to the prevention of dental caries and dental erosion can be also explained by improved clearance of substrate due to more rapid movement of the salivary film, and, in the case of dental caries, greater activity of salivary antimicrobial mechanisms. Reductions in the quantity of salivary secretions or changes in the properties of saliva are responsible for a host of related oral and dental problems which impact directly upon quality of life. These include: • difficulties in eating and speaking • alterations in taste (dysgeusia) • increased plaque formation • increased risk of dental caries, dental erosion, and periodontal diseases • mucosal abrasions and mucosal irritation • halitosis Clinical aspects of salivary biology for the dental clinician