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

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, enzymati...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Oral diseases 2002-05, Vol.8 (3), p.117-129
Main Authors: Pedersen, AM, Bardow, A, Jensen, S Beier, Nauntofte, B
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
alpha-Amylases - metabolism
Biological and medical sciences
Deglutition - physiology
Dentistry
digestion
Digestion - physiology
Esophagus - physiology
Food
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
human salivary glands
Humans
Lipase - metabolism
mastication
Mastication - physiology
Mouth Mucosa - physiology
Mouth. Exocrine and endocrine salivary glands. Teeth. Esophagus
saliva
Saliva - enzymology
Saliva - physiology
Saliva - secretion
Salivary Gland Diseases - complications
Salivary Glands - secretion
Salivation - physiology
swallowing
taste
Taste - physiology
Tooth - physiology
Vertebrates: digestive system
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Summary: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.
ISSN:1354-523X
1601-0825
DOI:10.1034/j.1601-0825.2002.02851.x