The role of saliva in oral health and the causes and effects of xerostomia.

Saliva is an extremely vital fluid in the maintenance of oral homeostasis. Its reduction predisposes individuals to oral symptoms and oral disease. The dental practitioner must be aware of the importance of saliva and be involved in the recognition and diagnosis of problems in salivary function. No other health care worker is more able to thoroughly assess the oral environment and to recognize these oral complications.