[The functions of saliva].
Saliva is crucial in maintaining the oral health. The watery, viscous phase of saliva solubilizes the various substances and prevents the oral surfaces against desiccation. An agent is tasted only when present in a soluble state. The electrolytes of the saliva are essential as a buffer (bicarbonate and phosphate) and they are involved in the remineralization of the tooth enamel.
van Nieuw Amerongen
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Uit de vakgroep Orale Biochemie, Academisch Centrum Tandheelkunde Amsterdam (ACTA).
D006801:Humans; D009909:Oral Health; D012463:Saliva / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D012469:Salivary Glands / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology