Skip to main content
An official website of the United States government
Español

saliva

(suh-LY-vuh)
The clear, watery fluid in the mouth made by the salivary glands. Saliva moistens food to help with chewing and swallowing. It also contains enzymes that help digest food, minerals that strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay, and antibodies that kill germs and help protect the mouth against infections.
Search NCI's Dictionary of Cancer Terms