The presence of saliva in the mouth is essential for oral health. In addition to assisting speech and eating, saliva has many other functions including neutralisation of acid, control of the oral microbiome, remineralisation of enamel, and facilitation of taste. This presentation will describe where saliva comes from, what is in it, what are the causes of reduced production, what are the consequences of low salivary flow on oral health and what can be done to minimise the adverse impact.

• ["To have contemporary knowledge of the production and functions of saliva."
• To have knowledge of the oral signs and symptoms of reduced salivary flow.
• To be aware of healthcare products available to minimize the adverse effects of dry mouth.

Professor Mike Lewis is Emeritus Professor of Oral Medicine, Cardiff University. He has served in a number of senior professional positions within the UK, including Dean of the School of Dentistry at Cardiff University, Dean of the Dental Faculty of the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow, Director of the Clinical Board for Dentistry, Cardiff & Vale University Health Board, President of the British Society for Oral Medicine and President of the British Society for Oral & Dental Research. He has published over 200 scientific articles and co-authored six medical textbooks. In addition, he has delivered more than 700 invited postgraduate lectures worldwide. Professor Lewis was awarded the John Tomes Medal in 2023 by the British Dental Association for outstanding scientific contribution to the dental profession.