Saliva functions Functions Salivary fluid characteristics and specific components Protection Mechanical cleansing of the mouth Water Clearance of food/microorganisms Water Lubrication of oral surfaces Water,mucins,proline-rich glycoproteins Mucosal intergrity and coating Water,mucins,electrolytes,epidermal growth factor,nerve growth factor Tooth mineralisation Cystatins,histatins,proline-rich proteins,statherins Ca2+,and phosphate Buffering Bicarbonate,phosphate and protein Antimicrobial activity Anti-bacterial:amylases,cystatins,histatins,mucins,lactoperoxidase, lysozyme,lactoferrin,calprotectin,immunoglobulins,chromogranin von Ebner glands protein,secretory leukocyte proteinase inhibitor Anti-fungal:histatins,immunoglobulins,chromogranin A Anti-viral:cystatins,mucins,immunoglobulins,secretory leukocyte proteinase inhibitor Digestion and speech Formation of bolus Water,mucins Mastication and swallowing Water,mucins Initial digestion Water,mucins,amylases,lipases,ribonucleases,proteases Taste Water,gustin,Zn2+ Speech Water,mucins Saliva functions