salivar

Salivar is a verb form associated with the production or secretion of saliva. In contemporary English, salivar is rarely used; the more common verb is to salivate. The term may appear in some medical texts or as a cognate in Romance languages, where it retains the sense of producing saliva or undergoing salivation.

Saliva is produced by three major paired glands—the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands—along with numerous small salivary glands distributed in the oral mucosa. The autonomic nervous system regulates salivation, with parasympathetic stimulation typically increasing watery saliva and sympathetic input affecting the composition and viscosity. Saliva contains water, mucus, enzymes such as amylase, electrolytes, and antimicrobial components. Its functions include lubrication of the mouth, initiation of digestion, facilitation of taste, and protection of teeth and mucous membranes.

Clinical aspects of saliva production include conditions of both excess and reduced flow. Hypersalivation, or sialorrhea, can occur with neurological disorders, infections, pregnancy, or certain medications. Conversely, xerostomia, or dry mouth, results from reduced saliva flow and can be caused by dehydration, aging, medications, radiation therapy, or autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome. Management depends on the underlying cause and may involve hydration, oral care, saliva substitutes, or adjustments to medications and dental hygiene practices.