Saliva - The Natural Protector for Your Teeth

Saliva protects your teeth, by neutralizing the acids that are produced after eating and drinking. Saliva provides a barrier against sensitivity, erosion and decay. Poor saliva quality can limit the longevity of your dental treatment.

Assessment of Saliva Production

Do you drink less than the recommended 8 glasses of water per day?
Do you drink caffeinated tea or coffee?
Do you smoke?
Do you take any medications that have the potential to cause a dry mouth?
Do you ever experience a dry mouth (also known as xerostomia)?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, the health of your saliva could be compromised.

If not enough saliva is produced, your teeth may not be protected from acid attack. This can lead to:

1. Accelerated tooth decay
2. Rapid breakdown of existing fillings
3. Tooth wear
4. Tooth sensitivity

At Camp Hill Dental we conduct Saliva Tests , which measure the quality of your saliva and the quantity that is being produced. We can identify any concerns and make recommendations that will improve the health of your saliva. We also recommend that any patient embarking on a program of reconstructive dental treatment (crowns, bridges or ceramic fillings) have a Saliva Test completed.

Causes of Unhealthy Saliva

Causes of unhealthy saliva may include:

• Stress
• Frequent intake of alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, acidic foods and drinks
• Grazing with frequent meals and snacks per day
• Occupation
• Dehydration from lack of water consumption and recreational habits such as sports/sport drinks
• Use of certain medications (including naturopathic remedies, antidepressants, anti-asthmatics, antihistamines)
• General overall health.

How to Increase Your Production of Saliva

To keep your teeth healthy through the production of saliva, it is recommended that you follow a few simple steps:

- Have only 4 servings of sugar per day. This will give your saliva sufficient time to neutralise the acids found within your foods and drinks.

- Cut down on caffeine and cigarettes, which decrease the amount of saliva produced.

- Drink plenty of water to keep not only your teeth, but also the rest of your body, healthy.

- Avoid acidic drinks (including carbonated, sports drinks) after strenuous activity. Following exercise, your body shuts down your saliva production in an attempt to keep you hydrated. Without adequate levels of saliva, your teeth are prone to acid attacks. Before undertaking demanding physical activity, try to drink water in order to hydrate your body and stimulate the production of saliva.

- Try to consume plenty of fruit and vegetables, as this will stimulate the production of saliva.

- Avoid honey, dried fruits, sweet biscuits, jam, cakes, high-energy snacks and investigate the sugar content present in your morning cereals!