Drinking water is important for every aspect of our health. It’s significant to stay hydrated in more ways than one, but does drinking water help your teeth, too? The short answer: is yes! You should stay hydrated for the benefit of your teeth.
Myth#: Water with fluoride does more harm than good for your teeth.
That is not the case. Fluoride and water are two things that dentists love. When you drink water that contains fluoride, you give your teeth a little extra boost to protect them against decay.
Reasons why you should stay hydrated
Strengthens Teeth
Drinking water, including water enhanced with fluoride, is recommended to strengthen teeth. Fluoride is a component proven scientifically to make teeth healthy and reduce cavities. It supports tooth structure and promotes remineralization. Consuming water with fluoride is an easy way to care for your dental health.
Cleans Your Mouth
Drinking water, along with consistent brushing and flossing, will keep your teeth clean. It rinses off acid and residue left by some foods, as well as sugars and bacteria. If these harmful residues are left on the tooth surface and between the teeth, cavities will fill with bacteria. Another benefit of drinking water instead of colas, teas, and coffee is that it doesn’t stain your teeth.
Reduces Dry Mouth
The problem of dry mouth is caused by a lack of saliva, which prevents tooth decay. A dry mouth is also uncomfortable and an indication of dehydration. Drinking sufficient amounts of water daily resolve dry mouth and supports saliva production, hence few cavities.
Reduces Bad Breath
If you experience halitosis regularly, you understand the embarrassment that comes with it. Poor dental health, built-up bacteria, dry mouth, and dirty teeth all play a role in bad breath. It’s no wonder that mouthwash and products designed to eliminate mouth odour are a billion-dollar industry. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day cleans your mouth and rinses away odour-causing bacteria.
Hydrates Your Gums
Dental health is not only about your teeth. It includes your gums. When your gums are in poor health, it could lead to gingivitis and tooth loss. Drinking water promotes saliva production, essential for healthy gums. Proper hydration with water consumption will keep your gums hydrated and plump to protect the root of your teeth.
Drinking water helps keep your teeth healthy because it keeps your saliva levels high. Saliva is important for neutralizing harmful acids in our teeth, allowing us to maintain a greater pH balance in our mouths. Drinking water also cleanses bacteria away from the mouth, leaving little room for cavity-causing bacteria to take hold.
Water also helps prevent tooth decay by increasing saliva flow in the mouth. Saliva contains calcium and phosphate, which help to repair teeth after they’ve been damaged.
Many people find that drinking water can also provide an overall boost in health. Since it improves your oral health, it only makes sense that it would make you feel better overall.
Water is a simple, cheap way to keep your smile healthy and happy. The next time you’re thirsty, drink a glass of water for an instant boost in health!