We learn from a young age that our bodies consist primarily of water and that keeping ourselves hydrated is crucial to good overall health. Drinking plenty of water maintains the health of our mouths too.
Dentists and other medical professionals recommend drinking at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water per day to uphold proper hydration levels. Dr. Jason Baldwin, a dentist in Truckee, CA, outlines how staying hydrated can boost your oral health.
Rinse Unwanted Residue
To keep our mouths clean and healthy, we practice good oral hygiene habits, including brushing our teeth twice a day and flossing daily. However, we consume substances that can contribute to plaque build-up and dental harm in between these regimens.
Drinking water can rinse the unwanted residue and leftover food particles from your mouth to boost your oral hygiene and lower your risk of developing dental problems. Less residue can also decrease your likelihood of garnering bad breath or other unpleasant conditions.
Avoid Dry Mouth
Low levels of hydration can decrease saliva production, leaving you with the uncomfortable sensation of dry mouth. This establishes an environment where bacteria can easily spread across your teeth and infect your gums.
Dentists can treat these periodontal infections, or gum disease, but they recommend preventative care primarily when it comes to gum health. For this reason, you should drink plenty of water to decrease your risk for periodontal concerns.
Choose the Healthiest Beverage
Compared to many beverages, including soft drinks, water is one of the healthiest drinks you can choose. It has zero calories and can contain fluoride, a compound that strengthens teeth enamel, increasing your teeth’s ability to resist dental harm.
Water also contains no added sugar, unlike many soft drinks. Sugar is notoriously detrimental for your teeth because it reacts with bacteria in your mouth to become acidic. The acid then deteriorates your enamel, leaving teeth vulnerable to decay.
You do not have to worry about tooth staining when drinking colorless water. Beverages like coffee and tea get their dark color from tannins that can absorb into your enamel and leave stains on the surface of your teeth.
Visit Your Dentist Today in Truckee, CA
Dr. Baldwin treats gum disease and other dental concerns in patients in Truckee, CA. Our practice specializes in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry, including sedation dental options. To schedule a consultation or appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 530.206.0392.