Staying hydrated has many benefits for your body, and you may have heard the benefits growing up from your teachers and parents. However, nobody may have told you about the various oral health benefits of drinking an adequate amount of water. Dehydration leads to conditions like dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay.
After you eat food, the residue stays back in your mouth. Water acts as a natural cleanser that washes away this residue. Saliva helps in the same, but you need to be hydrated enough for that as well. Philadelphia, a state where people love to grab snacks on the go, drinking water is essential to neutralize harmful acids and fight bacteria.
The winter season can decrease your water intake. Therefore, it is important that you monitor how many bottles you are finishing every day. To protect your oral health and know the importance of good habits, visit a family dentist in Philadelphia, PA, today. They can offer personalized advice on hydration and tell you about any issues that might need attention.
How hydration helps improve your oral health
One of the most important ways water helps improve your oral health is through saliva. Saliva is one of your mouth’s best defenses against dental problems. It helps wash away food particles and debris after meals, reducing the chances of plaque build-up.
Saliva is made up of water, enzymes, and antimicrobial compounds that fight bacteria. This means it can neutralize the acids produced by plaque, which can wear away tooth enamel. Additionally, saliva can remineralize your tooth’s enamel and keep it strong and healthy.
When you do not drink enough water, you suffer from dehydration and an oral condition called dry mouth. Dry mouth increases the risk for various oral health problems. Plus, it also decreases saliva, which is an important component of oral care.
When you drink enough water, you maintain a healthy balance in your mouth. And if you drink fluoridated water, it can even help strengthen your tooth enamel. Drinking water regularly is an easy way to protect your teeth.
Why is water the best choice for hydration?
While there are many drink options available, water is the best choice for hydration. Sugary drinks like sodas and fruit juices can seriously harm your teeth. In fact, regular consumption of sugary drinks is one of the top causes of tooth decay.
Water has no sugar and does not harm the enamel. In fact, water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, reducing plaque buildup.
Tap water contains fluoride, a mineral that helps protect your teeth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) even considers water fluoridation one of the greatest public health achievements because it can reduce tooth decay by about 25%.
Drinking water is the best choice for hydration because it does not only promote hydration but oral cleaning as well. Moreover, it promotes saliva production. Water’s neutral pH and cleansing effects make it the best option for cavity prevention.
How much water should you drink?
How much water you need to drink each day depends on several factors. This includes your age, sex, activity level, and where you live.
The U.S. National Academies of Sciences recommends about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of water per day for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women. This also includes fluids you get from foods like fruits and vegetables, which make up about 20% of your daily fluid intake.
People who exercise regularly or live in hot climates may need to drink more water. It is important to adjust your water intake based on your personal lifestyle.
Need dental advice on hydration?
Learning how to stay hydrated can prevent tooth decay and keep your teeth strong. Visit a family dentist in Philadelphia today for personalized advice on hydration and oral health!
