As the Country Heats up, Did you Know Proper Hydration is Critical for Your Dental Health?
As the heat soars across the nation, staying hydrated while being outdoors is becoming increasingly more important. While most people understand how being hydrated helps the body, not many know how important it is for dental health. As if you need another reason to stick to a hydration regimen this season, these are five critical ones to keep your pearly whites in perfect condition.
Water Promotes Healthy Saliva Production
Hydration levels are critical for your body to maintain proper saliva production. Saliva helps to neutralize acids by washing away food particles. It also contains enzymes that aid in protecting teeth from tooth decay and dental carries. Therefore, having good hydration throughout the seasons will help your dental health stay healthy all year round.
Water Helps to Prevent Dry Mouth 
Having a dry mouth is not only uncomfortable; it can lead to a condition called xerostomia. Xerostomia is a fancy word for dry mouth. When you have a perpetual dry mouth, it can increase your risk of cavities, and over time, lead to gum disease and chronic bad breath. Drinking fluids regularly, especially when working or playing outdoors in the heat, can help to prevent the long-term effects of dry mouth.
Water Reduces the Risk of Tooth Decay
Water helps your dental health by rinsing away sugars and acids that can be left on your teeth after eating and drinking sugary foods and drinks. By washing away acids and sugars, you reduce the risk of plaque buildup. Drinking water and staying hydrated can also help to minimize your risk for tooth decay and dental caries.
Staying Hydrated Helps to Support Gum Health
Sufficient hydration is necessary to reduce the risk of gum disease and promote healthy gum tissue. Drinking a sufficient amount of water can also help to reduce the inflammation that can lead to gingivitis. By keeping yourself hydrated, you can also limit the risk of periodontal disease over time. So, proper hydration isn’t just about the summer heat; it is about staying hydrated throughout the seasons.
Proper Hydration Helps to Keep Breath Fresh
When you aren’t properly hydrated, it can lead to chronic dry mouth. Having a persistent dry mouth is a big contributor to chronic halitosis or bad breath. It can also lead to bacterial growth and dental carries. When you drink water, it helps to wash away food debris and acids continually so they aren’t left to build up. Instead of carrying gum everywhere, bring your water bottle along with you when you go.
Also, Limit Sugary Sodas and Sports Drinks
Not all sports drinks are healthy or excellent for hydration. Drinking sodas and sugary drinks can also have the opposite effect on your hydration levels. When you’re participating in sports or spending a lot of time outdoors in the heat, make sure to get enough liquid for hydration. Also, pay close attention to the sugar content of a beverage before assuming it is healthy. Proper hydration is best in the form of water or drinks without sugars and acids!
As we head into the hot days of summer, now is a perfect time to focus on staying hydrated for your health. By getting the proper amount of hydration, you can also limit the heat negatively impacting your dental health. When choosing the right hydration aids, try to limit your intake of sugary and acidic drinks or better yet, stick to water. Proper hydration is important during the summer time, but don’t discount good hydration habits throughout the year and its impact on your health and teeth. Why not schedule your back-to-school exam today and beat the rush?