The image shows a modern dental clinic interior with various pieces of equipment, including a dental chair and an X-ray machine.

Patients Who Wear Braces Must Beware of Dry Mouth

January 24, 2023

You probably don’t give much thought to your saliva, but it performs many important jobs. Inadequate saliva flow is a condition called dry mouth. Saliva plays a major role in good oral health, especially if you’re a child or adult with braces metal or clear braces. 

 

At the office of Jeansonne & Spillers Dentistry, we’re enthusiastic about treating all aspects of your dental health. We have a welcoming environment in which each patient feels at ease.

 

Wearing braces and maintaining excellent oral health is particularly challenging. The appliances’ brackets, wires and other intricate elements can get in the way of thorough daily cleanings. Saliva keeps your teeth strong, carries away food particles, and helps prevent cavities and plaque. 

 

Because saliva is so important to your oral health, you must tell your dentist if you’re suffering from inadequate saliva flow. Seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and exams is especially important while you’re wearing braces. 

 

Here’s a closer look at this liquid that’s a crucial component of your mouth. Microscopic salivary glands are all over your lips, tongue, nose and voice box. There are hundreds of them. These teeny openings help release and preserve the saliva in your mouth. 

 

But three main salivary glands, called the parotid, sublingual and submandibular, produce 90 percent of your saliva and keep everything flowing smoothly. This trio of ducts is in your cheeks, jaw and the bottom of your mouth. A healthy person pumps out 40 tablespoons of saliva every day; 99 percent of it is water. The rest is a mixture of proteins, enzymes, sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, immunoglobulins and mucins. The calcium, phosphorous and magnesium make your enamel more durable. 

 

Though the proteins are in that measly 1 percent of saliva, they’re the first line of defense against harmful oral bacteria, and they help your taste receptors do their job. Saliva’s enzymes help break down starches and fats in your mouth, thereby assisting in your digestive process. Mucin also helps digestion by keeping your mouth lubricated. 


At the office of Jeansonne & Spillers Dentistry, our team of dental professionals has the ability, focus and flexibility to demonstrate unparalleled professional knowledge. Our high-tech, cutting-edge diagnostic equipment will give us an overall view of the health of every aspect of your mouth and teeth. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment.

Healthy Smiles Support Overall Wellness

Dental issues affecting your smile can also have consequences on the health of the rest of the body. It’s why our office emphasizes the importance of prevention, routine checkups, and providing patients with the resources and care required to maintain good oral health that supports wellness.

Dentistry with Heart and Skill

Learn more about our welcoming practice and the full range of services we offer for patients of all ages. Our knowledgeable team is here to answer your questions, guide you through your options, and help you find a convenient time to visit. Reach out today—we’re ready to provide the exceptional care your smile deserves!

Office Hours

Monday
11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
7:00 am - 2:00 pm
Friday
8:30 am - 1:30 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed