Components in saliva Flashcards
1
Q
Minerals - sodium, calcium, potassium, and their electrolytes such as phosphates.
A
- Neutralises dietary acids
- Buffers to maintain stable ph in the oral cavity
- allows mineralisation of plaque to form supragingival calculus
2
Q
Salivary amylase
A
Digestive enzymes that helps to begin starch digestion before we swallow it - also called ptyallin
3
Q
Antibodies
A
- Immunoglobulins to fight infections such as perio disease
- promotes wound healing
4
Q
Leucocytes
A
White blood cells used as a defence mechanism against oral infection and disease
5
Q
Mucus
A
- To allow speech and swallowing to occur
- To aid lubrication
6
Q
Other enzymes
A
- Antibac enzymes to aid in the defence against oral disease
- Promote wound healing
7
Q
Water
A
- Carrying agent for other components
- lubrication for swallowing and speech
- dissolves food to allow for taste
- Dislodges teeth interproximally around the teeth
