Ah, water, one of the freshest and most vital resources on earth! Not only is it good for your body, but it can also vastly improve your oral health. But how does water contribute to better teeth and gums? Continue reading to dive into the importance of hydration and how it benefits your smile!
Prevents Dry Mouth
Dry mouth occurs when your saliva production slows to a halt. Why is this an issue? Because saliva is your body’s natural tooth defender, protecting them from acids and bacteria. Dry mouth can lead to difficulties in speaking, chewing, and swallowing along with increasing the risk of decay and infections. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent this by keeping saliva production at peak levels.
Reduces Risk of Tooth Decay
Water also helps rinse away food particles and sugars that oral bacteria feed on, reducing the risk of tooth decay. This is part of the reason that many cities put fluoride in their water systems. Fluoridated water helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks that cause cavities.
Freshens Your Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by a dry mouth and an abundance of bacteria or lingering food between your teeth. Without enough saliva to wash away the debris and bacteria, they can accumulate and produce foul-smelling compounds. Staying hydrated ensures your mouth remains moist and helps prevent bacteria from sticking around, helping to keep your breath fresh.
Enhances Oral Hygiene
Water is a natural cleanser for your mouth, but it also helps you maintain a good pH balance. Without proper hydration, your saliva can become more acidic which can erode your tooth enamel over time. Using water to wash acids and sugars while maintaining good pH balance is a simple yet effective way to support your oral hygiene routine.
As you can see, hydration is a key component of good oral health! By drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated, you can support saliva production, prevent dry mouth, reduce the risk of tooth decay, and keep your breath fresh. So, make water your drink of choice and incorporate these hydration tips into your daily routine for a healthier, happier smile!
About the Practice
At Central Dental Associates, our mission is to provide patients with quality dental care that helps prevent oral issues before they start. To achieve this, our team uses the latest dental techniques and technologies to create and implement tailor-made treatment plans. Whatever your needs, we make sure to help you achieve a smile that’s brilliant, healthy, and comfortable! Call (781) 769-3566 to schedule an appointment or visit our website to see a full menu of services we offer.