Oral Health Benefits of Drinking Water

Nothing is better than a tall glass of water to quench your thirst–especially considering that the adult human body is made up of up to 60% water! Drinking plenty of water is essential to keeping your body healthy, and your mouth is no different. Read on to learn about the benefits that water can provide for your oral health!

• Strengthens Teeth

Many supplies of public water in the United States are fluoridated, meaning they have fluoride added to a level of 0.7 milligrams per liter of water. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps prevent the development of tooth decay and cavities by strengthening the crystalline mineral structure of enamel, the outer protective layer of teeth. So with every sip of tap water you take, you are actively protecting your teeth from damage!

• Prevents Dry Mouth

Staying hydrated with water ensures a steady flow of saliva, which is 99% water and 1% proteins and salts. Dry mouth is when your mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva to keep it moist and comfortable. If mouth dryness becomes chronic, this condition can rapidly contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and discomfort.

• Protects Against Decay

Saliva contains important minerals, like calcium and phosphorus, that strengthen the structure of enamel. It’s essential that our mouths are regularly rinsed with saliva to help remove plaque and food particles from the surface of our teeth and tongue. The water itself is a calorie-free, fat-free, and sugar-free rinse to our mouths, washing away bacteria and food particles. This helps keep your tooth enamel strong and clean, and you don’t have to feel guilty for drinking it!

• Deters Bad Breath

Because water and saliva help clean out your mouth, the amount of bad breath bacteria is significantly reduced when you stay properly hydrated. Simply rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water can instantly freshen your breath. Try adding some crushed mint leaves for added flavor and fragrance.

Tips to Drink More Water

• If you’re not used to drinking the recommended eight glasses a day (or 64 ounces), start slowly and be prepared to make more trips to the bathroom than usual until your body adjusts to the increase in fluids.
• Use a reusable water bottle with measurements on the side or an app to track how many ounces you’re drinking a day. If you love cold water, choose an insulated bottle that keeps the water at your preferred temperature.
• Consciously drink before you feel thirsty. Keeping a water bottle nearby will help remind you to sip throughout the day.
• Whenever possible, choose water instead of fruit juice, alcohol, sports drinks, and soda. If you can’t resist a craving for flavored water, look for only sugar-free mix-ins.
• At mealtimes, try drinking an entire glass of water before eating. Not only will you get a big hydration boost, you may also find you actually eat less.

Schedule a Dental Visit Today!

When you start drinking plenty of water each day, you’ll notice an improvement in your oral health. Another simple way to support your oral health is visiting us here at CarolinasDentist twice a year for a cleaning and examination. We’re committed to delivering the best possible dental care to you and your loved ones. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

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