Saliva — a helper for health in the mouth

Saliva supports digestion and helps to keep teeth and gums healthy. It prevents infections from spreading in the mouth and, through its antibacterial effect, neutralises acids that damage the teeth. The important self-cleaning of the teeth by the saliva has to be supported. It is therefore advisable – as far as possible – to eat food that has to be chewed carefully. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking tooth-friendly sweets can also stimulate the flow of saliva

Drinking regularly and sufficiently is another essential element of dental care in old age too, and a contribution to general health. A markedly dry mouth often occurs as a side effect of certain illnesses such as Parkinson's disease, cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Since older people generally feel less thirst and drink less, carers too should place great value on fluid intake for older people

An increased flow of saliva also reduces the risk of bad breath, which can additionally be reduced by occasional mouth rinses with zinc lactate