Does Drinking Water and Staying Hydrated Improve Your Oral Health?

            Over half of out body is composed of water, so it should come as no surprise that staying hydrated can help you stay healthy. Along with everything else, it is vital in keeping your mouth, teeth and gums healthy. During the summer, dehydration can sneak up on you when you are outside enjoying the weather. So it is important to remember to drink lots of water to avoid dehydration, and as an added bonus it will promote good oral health. 

            Water helps to prevent bad breath. We know that one of the most common causes of bad breath is dehydration. When the rest of your body is short on water, you may not have enough saliva in your mouth. And when you run low on saliva, it gives bacteria that cause bad breath the opportunity to thrive and survive.

            Water also helps to prevent cavities. It can help cleanse the teeth of unwanted food remaining after a meal and is a very effective dental tool in assisting to clean your teeth when you don’t have a toothbrush or any other traditional instrument available.  Water will even improve the quality of your saliva. The saliva in your mouth is absolutely critical in your body’s ability to fight tooth decay. Any shortage of your saliva can increase your risk of developing cavities.

            It seems like a simple task to stay hydrated throughout the day, but when you are busy at work or keeping up with your family’s hectic schedule, it is easy to forget about yourself and your water consumption. Making an effort to drink more water will improve your overall health, your energy, and even keep your mouth and teeth much healthier.

If you have any other questions, visit www.brownandkupper.com.

Lee T. Brown, DDS

Brown and Kupper, DDS Inc.