Definition:
A complex exocrine fluid mainly produced by the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual salivary glands, as well as to a lesser degree by the multiple minor salivary glands lining the oral cavity. Whole mouth saliva also contains plasma exudates, cellular debris, and food remnants. The components of saliva play important roles in the dietary preprocessing of food, the lubrication of the mouth, the protection and remineralization of teeth, and in host defense.
