The role of saliva in the oral defence mechanisms
Dalmadi, L.; Fábián, T.K.ár.
Fogorvosi Szemle 97(5): 199-203
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0015-5314 PMID: 15631050 Document Number: 568062
Saliva plays an important role in oral health, regulating and maintaining the integrity of the oral hard tissues and soft tissues. This paper reviews the role of saliva in the oral defence mechanisms. The most important salivary immune and non-immune defence proteins and constituents that take part in the pellicle formation and re-mineralisation processes are introduced. General health conditions, medications and salivary gland disorders influencing the defence potential of the saliva are discussed. Treatment possibilities of such conditions, and the future perspective of saliva research is also presented.