What is the primary role of saliva in maintaining periodontal health?

• A. Providing nutrients to teeth
• B. Facilitating taste and chewing
• C. Providing antimicrobial properties and buffering acids
• D. Reducing plaque formation

Answer: (C)

The primary role of saliva in maintaining periodontal health is its ability to provide antimicrobial properties and buffer acids. Saliva contains various proteins, enzymes, and antibodies that help neutralize harmful bacteria and their products in the oral cavity. This antimicrobial action is crucial in preventing infections that can lead to periodontal disease.

Additionally, saliva plays a role in buffering acids produced by oral bacteria during sugar metabolism, which helps to maintain a neutral pH in the mouth. This is vital for protecting the hard and soft tissues of the periodontium from demineralization and erosion caused by acidic conditions. By helping to maintain a balanced pH, saliva supports a healthy environment for the oral microbiome, thereby contributing to overall periodontal health.

While saliva does have other functional roles, such as facilitating taste and chewing or potentially influencing plaque formation, the most significant aspect in relation to periodontal health is its antimicrobial effects and acid-neutralizing capacity. These capabilities directly support the integrity of periodontal tissues and help stave off the development of periodontal diseases.