Saliva and gastrointestinal functions of taste, mastication, swallowing and digestion

作者：Anne Marie Lynge Pedersen, Allan Bardow, Siri Beier Jensen, B. Nauntofte · 发表于：Oral Diseases · 年份：2002 · DOI：10.1034/j.1601-0825.2002.02851.x · 被引用次数：760 · 研究领域：Salivary Gland Disorders and Functions、Dental Erosion and Treatment、Oral microbiology and periodontitis research

Saliva has multiple essential functions in relation to the digestive process taking place in the upper parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This paper reviews the role of human saliva and its compositional elements in relation to the GI functions of taste, mastication, bolus formation, enzymatic digestion, and swallowing. The indirect function of saliva in the digestive process that includes maintenance of an intact dentition and mucosa is also reviewed. Finally, pathophysiological considerations of salivary dysfunction in relation to some GI functions are considered.