Saliva is much more than a simple bodily fluid. Often overlooked, it actually plays a fundamental role in our oral and overall health. In addition to facilitating essential functions such as chewing, swallowing, and speaking, saliva is a powerful ally in the prevention, healing, and even early diagnosis of numerous diseases. But what are its main functions, and why does it represent an important frontier in the diagnostic field today?
Un alleato quotidiano per la salute orale
Thanks to its composition rich in electrolytes, enzymes, and protective proteins, saliva keeps oral pH stable by counteracting the acidity responsible for Carrier. Its calcium and phosphate ions promote the remineralisation of tooth enamel, protecting teeth from wear and bacterial attacks.
Saliva also creates a thin protective film called the “acquired pellicle,” which coats the enamel, defending it from mechanical abrasion, chemical erosion, and mineral loss. The oral mucosa also benefits from its lubricating and hydrating action, which is fundamental for comfort during daily functions.
A natural defence system
Saliva is a powerful ally of the immune system. It contains antimicrobial molecules such as lysozyme, lactoferrin, myeloperoxidase, and histatins, capable of counteracting viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Furthermore, thanks to the presence of cytokines and growth factors, it promotes the rapid healing of micro-lesions in the oral mucosa.
Saliva and early diagnosis: the future is already here
In recent years, numerous studies They have demonstrated the diagnostic potential of saliva. This fluid contains a variety of biomarkers – hormones, enzymes, antibodies, DNA/RNA fragments – that reflect the health status of the entire organism.
– Diabetes: in diabetic patients, alterations in glucose, HbA1c and oxidative stress marker levels are found in saliva. These values can help in early diagnosis and disease monitoring.
- Stress and mental health: salivary cortisol, a biomarker for chronic stress, is often elevated in subjects with anxiety or depression. Alpha-amylase and lysozyme are also altered in conditions of psychological distress.
– Tumours: specific tumour markers – such as antigens, antibodies or sialic acid – can be detected in saliva, with promising applications in the early diagnosis of oral, pancreatic, or breast cancers.
A valuable tool for the’Modern dentistry
For dental professionals, salivary diagnostics represent an innovative tool for risk assessment, treatment customisation and monitoring the patient's general health status. In particular, it is useful in the management of periodontal diseases and in the prevention of systemic pathologies linked to oral health.
Absolute Health: prevention and innovation at the service of your health
At Absolute Health, we adopt an interdisciplinary approach, integrating the latest scientific discoveries into daily clinical practice. Salivary diagnostics is one of the tools we use to offer personalised, effective, and non-invasive care, always focusing on the patient's overall health and well-being.
