Exercise-Induced Changes in Salivary Function and Composition in Athletes: Implications for Performance and Oral Health- A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.74.75033Keywords
salivary changes, salivary biomarkers, exercise, athletesAbstract
Background. Saliva analysis is considered a useful non-invasive tool for monitoring physiological reactions to exercise stress in athletes.
Aim. This review was intended to assess the exercise-induced alterations in salivary composition and functions and their significance for athletic performance and oral health.
Material and methods. This paper searched the literature in electronic databases, including PubMed, using keywords: “Salivary Changes”, "Salivary Biomarkers”, "Exercise", “Athletes”. Articles included randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews since 1995 supplemented by randomized crossover trials, pilot studies, and prospective cohort studies.
Results. Intensive physical activity reduces salivary flow rate and buffer capacity especially in athletes with dehydration over 3% of body weight. Saliva biomarkers such as secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) show a temporary decrease during post-exercise “open window” period which makes athletes more susceptible to infections. Alterations in salivary cortisol and testosterone levels can be used for the anabolic/catabolic ratio estimation and early diagnosis of overtraining syndrome. In addition, a high correlation between salivary and plasma activities of creatine kinase in intensive exercises of swimmers has been established.
Conclusions. Saliva is an effective measure to estimate the condition of the athlete's physiology and is a prospective approach to monitor the intensity of physical training and recovery processes. However, exercise-induced alterations in salivary composition, combined with sport-specific dietary habits, increase the risk of tooth decay and erosion, highlighting the need for preventive strategies.
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