Health professionals are more and more aware of the importance of saliva for oral health and
well-being. As saliva secretion is steadily compromised with advancing age it becomes a factor
of concern in societies with an aging population especially with a growing number of people
who keep their own teeth. The numerous functions of saliva like antimicrobial activity
lubrication wound healing and its role in taste experience are only truly recognized when
saliva secretion is hampered. In medical diagnostics saliva shows its value as a safe and
economical alternative to blood. This publication provides a comprehensive overview of the
latest developments in salivary research by some of the world's leading experts in the field.
Chapters deal with various aspects: anatomy and physiology e.g. regeneration of salivary
glands saliva functions e.g. its protective and rheological properties and diagnostics and
disorders e.g. xerostomia and hypersalivation. This book is not only recommended to basic
scientists working in the field of oral biology but also to dental students dentists and
health professionals who want to know more about one of the most underestimated bodily fluids.
