Saliva production and secretion are controlled by the autonomic nervous system.
Understanding Autonomic Control
The autonomic nervous system, which operates largely unconsciously, is responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including salivation. It has two main branches:
- Sympathetic Nervous System: Often associated with the "fight-or-flight" response.
- Parasympathetic Nervous System: Often associated with "rest-and-digest" functions.
How Salivation is Controlled
The salivary glands, which produce saliva, receive nerve fibers from both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system. The influence of these two divisions on saliva production differs:
| Nervous System Branch | Effect on Saliva Production |
|---|---|
| Parasympathetic | Stimulates copious secretion of watery saliva, rich in enzymes. |
| Sympathetic | Generally produces a smaller amount of thicker saliva, rich in proteins. |
Key Points About Saliva Control
- Neural Regulation: The primary control over saliva production is neural, not hormonal.
- Reflex Responses: Salivation can be a reflex response triggered by the presence of food in the mouth, or even by the thought, smell, or sight of food. These stimuli activate the autonomic nervous system to increase saliva production.
- Protection: Saliva plays a vital role in oral health. It helps to lubricate the mouth, neutralize acids, and break down food.
Practical Examples
- Dry Mouth: When under stress (sympathetic activation), saliva production is reduced, causing dry mouth.
- Increased Salivation: When you smell a delicious meal (parasympathetic activation), saliva production increases in preparation for eating.
In summary, the autonomic nervous system, specifically through the interplay of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, governs the production and secretion of saliva. This neural control ensures appropriate salivary responses to various physiological demands and environmental cues.
