What are the three benefits that saliva provides
–It contains buffering agents (salivary bicarbonate, originating mainly from the parotid gland) that can neutralize the acids created by the bacteria (increase the pH)–Saliva contains minerals that must be present for the tooth remineralization process to occur (calcium and phosphate)–Saliva also contains antibacterial agents (e.g. fluoride) that inhibit the growth of oral bacteria