Staying Hydrated Could Help Your Teeth and Overall Health

The link between oral health care and water 

Even though the human body is made up of about 60% water, it is paramount to drink plenty of water and keep the body hydrated. There are many health benefits to drinking water. Water helps the body distribute healthy nutrients, get rid of waste, keep skin healthy and elastic, and it aids movement through joint lubrication. In addition, water plays a critical role in keeping teeth strong and healthy.

When we think of oral health, we usually think of brushing and flossing frequency, toothbrush selection, or how often we visit a dentist for cleanings and check-ups.

But, one commonly overlooked area is actually how water consumption positively impacts our oral health.

Water aids in cleaning the teeth and the mouth. While rinsing or even gargling with water is beneficial, simply drinking water helps keep your teeth and gums healthy. Water helps keep food particles from adhering to your teeth and also washes away acidic substances that may reside in one’s mouth. Because water does not contain sugar or other additives, it’s also a great alternative to sodas or even juices when it comes to oral health.

Tap water also often contains small traces of fluoride, which is a commonly-used, naturally-occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and has been known to reduce cavity occurrence by as much as 60%.

Drinking water can help your oral health

Drinking water to stay hydrated neutralizes acids in the mouth. As mentioned earlier, when we eat, the bacteria in the mouth produce acids that assist in the breakdown of food. The PH level in the mouth can drop to 5.0 or below from 7.0 as a result. During instances when we have too much acid in the mouth, harmful bacteria can grow in the mouth which eventually leads to tooth decay if oral care is not observed.

Drinking plenty of water also helps stop dry mouth, which occurs when the salivary glands are not able to produce enough saliva. Inadequate saliva in the mouth can play a role in tooth decay.

By choosing to drink water instead of other liquids, one can also prevent the onset of teeth discoloration or staining. While coffee, tea, wine, and other drinks can be great to enjoy with – or without – a meal, after a while, liquids such as these often hasten the staining of teeth. But, even if you like to enjoy coffee, tea, wine, or other types of food or drinks, finishing them off with a nice glass of cold water helps wash away at least some of the negative effects other food or drinks might leave behind.

Staying hydrated is important for your oral health since it helps lessen the onset of dental problems or worsen dental issues that may already be present.

For more information on oral health care or how we can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, contact us by clicking here or calling us on 718.878.4878.