Saliva

What is the main buffering system in saliva?

Bicarbonate

The gingival crevice and the surfaces between the teeth have the highest concentration of anaerobic bacteria.

Saliva doesn’t gain access to the gingival crevice

What is saliva?

Saliva is an interstitial fluid in the blood capillaries that enters through the ducts of the salivary glands, where it changes from isotonic to hypotonic.

At what pH is saliva considered dangerous for oral health?

<5.5

Do diabetics have increased or decreased salivary flow?

Increased

What is a possible mechanism for bacterial adhesion in the oral cavity?

There is an interaction between an antigen and an antibody

What is the main specific defense factor in saliva?

IgA

Does stimulating salivary flow increase or decrease saliva pH?

Increase

Puberty and pregnancy are accompanied by elevated levels of steroid hormones in plasma and subsequently in the crevicular fluid and saliva.

True

What is considered a normal salivary pH?

6.7

What is biofilm?

A community of microorganisms which are embedded in a polymer matrix. It includes polymers from the host and bacteria. It isn’t only found on the tooth surface.

What effect does anxiety have on saliva?

Salivary flow and pH decrease

What environment do anaerobic bacteria require?

A reducing environment

Is saliva sterile when it leaves the salivary gland?

Yes

Do nutrients present in saliva have to be exogenous?

No

At which resting saliva pH are people likely to have more caries?

5.5