SOME bacteria which reside naturally in the mouth are relatively benign (harmless), and, in some cases, even helpful. Others are more aggressive and troublesome, causing cavities and gum disease. One of the most troublesome ones is called Streptcoccosmutans (S. mutans). It is the primary cause of the cavities in our teeth. This species, and others like it, thrive on sugar and refined carbohydrates. As part of the bacteria’s digestive process, sugar is converted into acid and released as a waste product.

This acid erodes the enamel of the teeth, weakening the protective covering on the teeth and initiating decay. This is why people who eat a lot of sweets generally have a lot of rotten teeth (caries).
Now, no matter how often you brush your teeth, floss, and attempt to sterilise your mouth with oral disinfectants, the effect you have on the bacterial population is only minor. Most of these germs will survive the treatment and multiply and repopulate this ideal habitat. So, the battle against these squatters will remain constant.
Were it not for your saliva, your teeth would rot, and your mouth would be covered with infections, regardless. I am writing this article in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA where I am attending the American Dental Association’s Annual Meeting.
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Saliva is essential for the digestion of food, as well as keeping our mouth healthy. It contains a complex mixture of enzymes, buffers, antibodies and nutrients that fight off disease, and keep the teeth and gums in good working order.
We produce about two-and-a-half pints of saliva each day, and every teaspoon of that contains about two-and-a-half billion bacteria. Now, here is where the role of these bacteria comes in.
Enzymes in the mouth begin the process of digesting the foods we eat. Carbohydrates (starches), the primary nutritional component of grains (in bread, etc.), fruits, and vegetables are broken down into smaller units and simple sugars by salivary enzymes.
Bacteria in the mouth feed on these starches and sugars, producing potentially harmful acids. Saliva dilutes the acids, and neutralises them with chemical buffers. This way, a more neutral pH (degree of acidity) is maintained.
In addition, saliva contains unique antibodies and antimicrobial compoundsthat help control the growth of certain pathogenic organisms (disease- causing germs). Unfortunately, these compounds do not kill all troublemakers, and the mouth and the saliva still harbour many potentially harmful germs.
Saliva also contains a high concentration of certain mineral ions, particularly calcium and phosphate, the main ingredients of teeth. Microscopic damage to tooth enamel can be remineralised, and therefore repaired, by saliva. That is why artificial saliva is sold in pharmacies in the USA.
Throughout the day, saliva is produced. At certain times, such as when a meal is being eaten, saliva excretion increases. At night when you sleep, little or no saliva is produced. People who do not drink enough liquids during the day become chronically dehydrated, or have medical conditions that reduce saliva output, have a significantly greater amount of tooth decay and gum disease.