Written by Dr. Avani Gandhi, this post takes a closer look at saliva -- also called spit, drool, slobber, spittle, or froth -- something every parent becomes very familiar with during teething.
It explains that saliva is produced by the salivary glands and contains minerals that help remineralize and harden teeth, including newly erupted baby teeth, which start out softer.
It notes that dry mouth, a common medication side effect, raises the risk of dental problems since saliva isn't cleansing the teeth as effectively, and recommends staying well-hydrated as a result.
Saliva's composition is described as water, mucus, proteins, mineral salts, and the digestive enzyme amylase, which begins breaking down complex carbohydrates; saliva also plays a role in speech and in the body's water balance.
The post details three major pairs of salivary glands: the sublingual glands under the tongue (producing mostly mucus through the Bartholin's ducts, responsible for the ability to 'gleek,' or squirt saliva), the submandibular glands under the jaw (via the Wharton's ducts), and the parotid glands, the largest, located between the ear and jaw (via the Stensen's ducts) -- plus several hundred minor salivary glands in the tongue, palate, lips, and cheeks.
It notes these glands produce one to two liters of saliva a day, most of which is swallowed, and that saliva lubricates the mouth, aids swallowing and digestion, and helps protect teeth by washing away food and bacteria.