Saliva helps control the anaerobic bacteria population in your mouth because it is rich in oxygen (anaerobic bacteria do not breed in well-oxygenated environments) and has enzymes that help form antibodies. These antibodies help neutralize the anaerobic bacteria which is why saliva is so vital in the prevention of gingivitis and advanced periodontal disease. However, saliva cannot penetrate behind tartar and that is why the bacteria reproduce quicker. Remember, tartar cannot be completely removed by standard dental health products-it must be scraped away during a teeth cleaning procedure.