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Salivary functions in mastication, taste and textural perception, swallowing and initial digestion
Author(s) -
Pedersen AML,
Sørensen CE,
Proctor GB,
Carpenter GH
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
oral diseases
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.953
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 1601-0825
pISSN - 1354-523X
DOI - 10.1111/odi.12867
Subject(s) - saliva , mastication , swallowing , digestion (alchemy) , ingestion , bolus (digestion) , stimulation , dentistry , gastrointestinal tract , medicine , psychology , chemistry , chromatography
Saliva exerts multiple functions in relation to the initial digestive processes taking place in the upper parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion of food and beverages, in turn, is a strong stimulus for secretion of saliva with a differential composition depending on the neuronal stimulation pattern. This review paper provides insight into the mechanisms by which saliva acts in relation to taste, mastication, bolus formation, enzymatic digestion and swallowing. Also, the protective functions of saliva including maintenance of dental and mucosal integrity will be discussed as they indirectly influence the digestive process. The final part of this study focuses on the implications of xerostomia and salivary gland dysfunction on gastrointestinal functions.