Question

Write 5 functions of saliva.

Answer 1

Saliva:

1. Saliva is an extracellular fluid produced and secreted by salivary glands of the mouth.
2. Human saliva is composed of water plus electrolytes, mucus, white blood cells, epithelial cells, enzymes, and antimicrobial agents.

Functions of saliva:

1. Helps in cleaning the mouth, and has a tendency to destroy germs (prevents tooth decay).
2. Saliva lubricates the food for aiding swallowing.
3. Enzyme ptyalin involve in the conversion of starch into maltose.
4. Saliva aids the formation of bolus(ball-like mixture of food that is mixed in the mouth with saliva).
5. Saliva also lubricates and moistens the inner lining of the oral cavity with the surface of the tongue.