Saliva

Composition:

  1. Mucus
  2. Amylase
  3. Lipase
  4. electrolyte solution
  5. Enzymes and Proteins

Functions:

  • Acts as lubricants
  • Coating of hard and soft tissues
  • Help in Buffering
  • Re-mineralization and inhibition of de-mineralization.
  • Helps in digestion if Polysaccharides.

Secretion:

Saliva is secreted from salivary gland.

  • Contains secretory parts/ units called acinus and ducts
  • Acinar cells secrets fluid composed of water, mucus, electrolytes etc and these are flowed out and collected in collecting ducts.
  • In duct, sodium ion is re absorbed and potassium is secreted.
  • Bicarbonate is also secreted. It acts as buffer when combined with potassium.
  • Small collecting duct combine and form large collecting duct which open in oral cavity.
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