We learn from a young age that drinking water is crucial to maintaining overall wellness. If you become dehydrated, you can suffer consequences that impact multiple systems of your body, including your mouth.
Health professionals recommend drinking at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water per day to stay hydrated. Dr. Keith Boenning, a dentist in Towson, MD, describes the oral health benefits you can enjoy when you drink plenty of water.
Rinse Lingering Residue
Throughout the day, bacteria create a film of plaque over your teeth which can be removed by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. However, we consume substances in between these oral hygiene regimens that contribute to plaque build-up.
Food particles can cling to your teeth and interact with bacteria to create unpleasant symptoms like bad breath. Drinking water can rinse this lingering residue from your mouth and keep your mouth feeling refreshed and your teeth feeling clean.
Fight Dry Mouth
Low levels of hydration can decrease saliva production in your mouth which can leave you with the uncomfortable sensation of dry mouth. This condition creates an environment where bacteria can spread across your teeth and gums more freely.
This raises a dental patient’s risk for oral infections like gum disease. While dentists can treat inflamed gums with periodontal therapy, you can prevent damage to your gums and teeth by staying hydrated to lower the chances of gum disease.
Improved Nutritional Value
Water can be a healthier beverage choice compared to other popular drinks like soda. Water has zero calories and can contain fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel.
Soft drinks have high amounts of sugar, while water does not. Sugar is notoriously bad for your teeth because it reacts with bacteria in your mouth to become acidic. The acid weakens and thins tooth enamel.
Water is also colorless and will not stain your teeth, unlike dark-colored beverages like coffee or tea which contain tannins that absorb into tooth enamel. Typical oral hygiene practices cannot remove this kind of tooth discoloration, so water can be a better option to keep your teeth looking their best.
Schedule a Dentist Appointment in Towson, MD
Boenning & Dancykier Dental Implants & Cosmetic Dentistry treats gum disease and other dental conditions, offering both preventative and emergency dental care. Dr. Boenning is an expert dentist, specializing in restorative, implant, cosmetic, and general dentistry in Towson, MD. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 410.324.2294.