Science Behind a Confident Smile Series- Part 4 of 4

Your Saliva: Flowing Freely

Saliva plays an important role in a healthy mouth, neutralizing acids, limiting bacterial growth, and washing away leftover food particles. Enzymes in your saliva also help digest food. Coming back to my car metaphor, saliva is the oil in your well-oiled-machine. If you want to keep your mouth in tip-top shape, don’t forget about an adequate supply of this ever-important substance.

Lack of adequate saliva, or dry mouth, has different causes, including certain medications, aging, chemotherapy, diabetes, and stroke. Chronic dry mouth contributes to tooth decay, gum disease, mouth sores, and oral yeast infections.

Chronic dry mouth warrants a trip to the dentist, but in general, keep your mouth moist by drinking plenty of water, avoiding mouthwashes containing alcohol, and limiting acidic drinks like orange juice and soda. Seek help for severe snoring, and if the air in your bedroom is dry, consider using a dehumidifier to help relieve dry mouth.

For more information or to schedule you and your family for a dental exam and cleaning, please call us at (425) 318-7689. Dr. Jessica Chen at Duvall Family Dental is acaring and compassionate dentist looking forward to answering your questions.

Contents from https://www.deltadentalwa.com/blog/entry/2019/06/science-behind-confident-smiles