[Saliva as a main component of oral cavity ecosystem. Part I. Secretion and function].

Results of studies over the recent years indicate that saliva is one of the most important factors which influence on the oral cavity homeostasis. Human saliva not only lubricates the oral tissues, making oral function such as speaking, eating, and swallowing possible, but also protects teeth and oral mucosa surface against influence of many harmful factors. Knowledge about saliva helps to understand pathomechanisms, to work out the prevention and treatment rules of oral cavity diseases.