Looking for ways to cool down during hot summer weather? Drinking water will help you cool off while also replenishing water lost when you sweat. Without enough water in your body, you could face dangerous dehydration.
Drinking water in the summertime proves especially important because we sweat more often in higher temperatures. But did you know that drinking water is important for your oral health too?
Dentists ask their patients to drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day to stay hydrated. If you consume dehydrating agents like alcohol or caffeine, you should drink more water to compensate. Otherwise, dehydration may lead to consequences in the look and feel of your smile.
You can feel more encouraged to drink the water your mouth needs when you know more about its benefits. Read on to explore the advantages that drinking plenty of water will bring to your smile.
Elevate Your Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is an essential practice in which we remove harmful build-up that naturally collects on our teeth. We must brush our teeth twice a day and floss daily to get rid of plaque, food particles, and other residues.
However, we consume foods and beverages between teeth-brushing regimens that can contribute to plaque formation. If you want to boost oral hygiene before the next time you brush your teeth, drink water.
Water will rinse away lingering bits of food that might otherwise cling to the teeth and start to eat away at their structure. Getting rid of these particles promptly by drinking water can also help you avoid bad breath. Elevate oral cleanliness by drinking water after a meal.
Fight Harmful Dry Mouth
Dehydration can lead to several negative changes within the body, including dry mouth. Low amounts of water in the body will mean you cannot produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist.
In the resulting dry environment, oral bacteria may travel with greater ease. This heightens your risk of infections, including gum disease. If you contract gum disease or another infection, you will need intervention from a dentist to treat the issue.
Prevent these oral health concerns by addressing risk factors like dry mouth. Drinking water will introduce moisture to a dry mouth on an acute level. It will also keep you hydrated to help you avoid dry mouth conditions in the first place.
Strengthen Your Dental Structure
Enhanced oral hygiene by rinsing with water can fight plaque, reducing your risk of dental erosion. But drinking water, especially from the tap, can strengthen your teeth too.
Tap water contains fluoride, a natural mineral that fortifies the enamel, the outer layer of the tooth. With a stronger shield over your teeth, you can better reduce your chances of forming cavities, surface stains, and more.
This way, your teeth can continue to look and feel their best. Make sure you can enjoy these oral health benefits by drinking plenty of water this summer, even if you do not feel thirsty. Learn more preventive dental advice by giving your dentist a call.