Question

What is the role of saliva?

Answer 1

Saliva:

• Saliva is a watery fluid secreted in the oral cavity.
• The glands that secrete saliva are called salivary glands.
• There are three pairs of salivary glands located in the mouth region in human beings.
• The names of the three salivary glands are; submandibular, sublingual, and parotid glands.
• Saliva is a mixture of water, electrolytes, inorganic ions, mucus and enzyme (salivary amylase).

Role of saliva in the body:

1. It moistens the oral cavity

• The saliva secreted in the mouth covers the lining of the oral cavity thus, provide moisture to the epithelial cells.
• In the absence of saliva, a dry condition will be developed, leading to the damage of the epithelial lining of the oral cavity.

2. Mixing of food particles

• While chewing the food, the saliva and food particles are mixed with the help of the tongue.
• Proper mixing of food particles ensures that they are blended completely and are ready to enter the food pipe.

3. Taste perception

• Saliva is a fluid that allows small particles and chemicals to mix completely.
• It also ensures that the chemicals reach the taste buds located on the tongue for the sense of taste.

4. Breakdown of starch

• The enzyme (salivary amylase) present in saliva performs the digestion of starch molecules into simple carbohydrates.