Saliva is a clear watery fluid produced by the salivary glands. Its major roles are to keep the mouth and other parts of the digestive system wet, to break down carbohydrates, and assist in preparing food and assisting in swallowing.

The epithelial cells in the salivary glands produce two different types of saliva, mucous, which is thick, and serous, which is watery. Both contain electrolytes, antibacterials, and enzymes. There are three major salivary glands –the parotid, the submandibular, and the sublingual. There are also many small minor glands in the tongue, cheeks, lips and palate. These all produce mucous secretions, as does the sublingual glands. The parotid only makes serous, and the submandibular gland makes both mucous and serous.

Saliva’s dental role is protecting the teeth from acids with its buffering action and the formation of the tooth pellicle which is a protein like film formed from the saliva. The pellicle is believed to influence movement of ions that assist in enamel remineralisation and act as a barrier to acid attack.

Due to saliva’s critical role in oral health, Denta-Med gel has been scientifically formulated so its delivery system retains the saliva and uses it to attach the antibacterials.

Please note the information contained in this Web site is of a general nature only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. No person should act in reliance on any statement contained in this Web site and at all times should obtain specific advice from a qualified healthcare professional.