Functions:
The main function of saliva is to make saliva and help the chewed food to go down in the oesophagus easily. Saliva contains enzymes which break down food to a form which our body can use. Saliva plays a role in initiating the digestion of food. Saliva also provides continuing moisture for the mouth thus preventing dryness, constantly washing the mouth as one produces a constant flow of saliva that is being swallowed. Saliva helps keeping tongue and teeth healthy. There is more decayed tooth when there is excessive dryness in mouth.
Diseases:
Sialadenitis means inflammation of salivary gland. Mumps is a contagious and infectious viral disease causing swelling of salivary glands. Sialolithiasis means stone in the salivary glands, development of cyst in salivary gland. These are the disease conditions of salivary glands.
Interesting Facts:
If saliva cannot dissolve something, you cannot taste it. In order for foods or anything else, to have a taste, chemicals from the substance must be dissolved by saliva. If you do not believe it, try drying off your tongue before tasting something. During your lifetime you will produce enough saliva to fill two swimming pools.
