The Vital Functions of Saliva
Saliva is a complex fluid with several critical roles in maintaining health. It's composed of more than 99% water, but that small remaining percentage contains important enzymes, electrolytes, minerals, and proteins. Far from being a waste product, swallowing your saliva is part of a healthy system.
It aids digestion
- Saliva contains enzymes, such as amylase and lipase, that begin the process of breaking down carbohydrates and fats in your food before it even reaches your stomach.
- It moistens chewed food, forming a bolus that is easy to swallow and move down the esophagus.
It protects oral health
- Saliva helps cleanse the mouth by washing away food debris and bacteria, which helps prevent plaque buildup and bad breath.
- It neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, which are responsible for tooth decay and enamel erosion.
- It contains important minerals like calcium and phosphate that aid in the remineralization of teeth, a process that helps repair early-stage tooth decay.
It defends against infection
- Proteins and antibacterial compounds within saliva help control the population of harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the mouth.
- It contains antibodies, like secretory IgA, that bind to pathogens and help prevent infections.
When Swallowing Saliva Might Indicate a Problem
For the vast majority of people, swallowing saliva is a background process we don't even notice. However, sometimes we can become overly aware of it, or the amount of saliva may increase or decrease significantly. This is typically a symptom of an underlying issue, not a problem with the act of swallowing itself.
Hypersalivation (Excessive Saliva)
Producing more saliva than usual is a condition known as hypersalivation or ptyalism. It can have several causes, some of which are temporary, while others require medical attention. Potential causes include:
- Pregnancy: Morning sickness or hormonal changes can temporarily increase saliva production.
- GERD (Acid Reflux): When stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, it can trigger the salivary glands to produce extra saliva to neutralize the acid.
- Medications: Certain drugs, particularly some antipsychotics, can have hypersalivation as a side effect.
- Infections: Oral or throat infections can increase saliva production as the body tries to flush out toxins.
- Dental Issues: Poor oral hygiene or untreated cavities can sometimes cause an increase in saliva production.
The risk of aspiration
In very rare cases, typically involving individuals with compromised swallowing reflexes, there is a risk of aspirating saliva or other fluids into the lungs. This is a serious condition that can lead to aspiration pneumonia. However, this is not a risk for healthy individuals who swallow automatically and effectively. Medical professionals, like speech therapists, are trained to assess this risk.
Comparison of Saliva Imbalances
Understanding the differences between too much and too little saliva can help clarify symptoms.
| Feature | Hypersalivation (Excess Saliva) | Xerostomia (Dry Mouth) |
|---|---|---|
| Common Causes | Pregnancy, GERD, certain medications, oral infections, anxiety | Dehydration, medications (antihistamines, decongestants), autoimmune disorders, radiation therapy |
| Associated Symptoms | Nausea, stomach upset, heartburn, chapped lips, drooling | Difficulty swallowing, bad breath, increased tooth decay, gum disease, altered sense of taste |
| Health Impact | Can cause discomfort; often a symptom of another condition. | Significantly increases risk of oral health problems and impairs speech and swallowing |
| Typical Treatment | Address underlying cause (e.g., GERD medication, adjusting prescriptions) | Increase fluid intake, use saliva substitutes, medications, manage underlying disease |
The Myth About Bacteria and Sickness
Some people worry about swallowing the bacteria in their own mouth and getting sick. While saliva does contain a vast number of microbes, this is a normal part of our internal ecosystem. Your digestive system is designed to handle and process these microorganisms.
Is it different for illness?
During an illness like a cold or infection, your saliva may contain more pathogens. However, your body is already fighting that illness. Swallowing your own contaminated saliva does not re-infect you or make you sicker. The primary risk of infectious disease spread through saliva is transmission from one person to another, not to oneself. This is why practicing good hygiene is so important when sick.
Conclusion
So, is it unhealthy to swallow saliva? For the vast majority of people, the answer is a definitive no. It is a vital and healthy function of your body. Concerns arise not from the act itself, but from potential underlying conditions that may cause excessive or insufficient saliva production. If you have persistent concerns about your saliva production, it's always wise to consult with a healthcare provider. For more in-depth information about the benefits of saliva and its role in oral health, see Delta Dental's information on saliva.
