Dental Admissions Test (DAT) Practice Test

What is the role of saliva in oral health?

1. Only to help in digestion

2. To help in digestion and neutralize acids

3. To protect against bad breath

4. To prevent food decay

The correct answer is: To help in digestion and neutralize acids

Saliva plays a multifaceted and crucial role in maintaining oral health, and its functions extend beyond simple digestion. One of the key functions of saliva is to aid in the digestive process by providing enzymes, such as amylase, that begin breaking down carbohydrates in food. This initial digestive action begins while food is still in the mouth. In addition to aiding digestion, saliva helps to neutralize acids produced by bacteria that can accumulate in the mouth. This is important because acidic environments can lead to enamel erosion and increase the risk of dental caries. By buffering these acids, saliva helps to maintain a more neutral pH in the oral cavity, providing protection against decay and enamel wear. Moreover, saliva plays a significant protective role by facilitating the remineralization of enamel, lubricating the oral tissues, and aiding in swallowing. While it may help reduce bad breath by washing away food particles and bacteria, its primary functions concerning oral health are more comprehensive, including digestion and the neutralization of harmful acids. These combined roles highlight the importance of saliva in preserving overall oral health.