The role of salivary proteins on the oral microflora
Date
2007
DOI
Authors
Abdelrahman, Firas
Version
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Saliva is the glandular secretion which constantly bathes the teeth and the oral mucosa. It is comprised of secretions of the three paired major salivary glands, the parotid, submandibular and sublingual, the minor salivary glands and the gingival fluid. The presence of saliva is vital to the maintenance of healthy oral tissues. Reduction of salivary output not only results in a rapid deterioration in oral health but also has a detrimental impact on quality of life for the patient suffering from dry mouth. These individuals experience difficulty with eating, swallowing, speech, retention of denture, taste alteration, oral hygiene, trauma and ulceration of the oral mucosa, a burning sensation of the mucosa, oral infections and rapidly progressive dental caries. Saliva and the oral microflora are major factors determining oral health. Saliva acts on the microflora by exerting antimicrobial and growth-stimulating effects simultaneously. One of the most effective antibacterial mechanisms of saliva is its washing action. In general, bacteria can proliferate and live in the mouth. Saliva has a protective function in regulating the oral microflora by excluding pathogens and also in maintaining the natural microflora. Saliva also acts as a source of nutrients for bacterial micro-organisms and helps to control pH in the oral environments. An understanding of saliva and its role in oral health will help to promote an awareness amongst health care workers of the problem, its prevention and treatment.
An understanding of the protective mechanisms of saliva at a fundamental level is a necessary prerequisite for effective treatment of salivary gland dysfunction. Progress toward modulating bacterial colonization of oral surfaces, to elimination pathogens requires a good understanding of the molecular
mechanisms involved in bacterial adhesion. Also, a good understanding is required of the possible interactions of various protective systems in the oral cavity.
Description
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Thesis (MS)--Boston University, Goldman School of Dental Medicine, 2007 (Dept. of Periodontology and Oral Biology).
Includes bibliographical references: leaves 37-47.
Thesis (MS)--Boston University, Goldman School of Dental Medicine, 2007 (Dept. of Periodontology and Oral Biology).
Includes bibliographical references: leaves 37-47.
License
This work is protected by copyright. Downloading is restricted to the BU community. If you are the author of this work and would like to make it publicly available, please contact open-help@bu.edu.