Did you know that water is the best drink for your teeth? No, really–the rumors are true. Drinking water is really, really good for your oral health. The human body is comprised of 60% water, and staying hydrated ensures that the body is able to maintain its daily functionalities–like ridding itself of waste, distributing nutrients, and ensuring that muscles move properly–which are things you would probably want to do even if oral health isn’t your primary concern.
So why is water so good for your oral health, specifically?
A Clean Mouth is a Happy Mouth
Many of the beverages we consume leave unwanted sugars behind that can stain the teeth and cause other health problems. Our mouths contain bacterium that feed on sugars to produce acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. To add insult to injury, many of these drinks themselves contain additional acids, which further wear away enamel.
Water is a great way to avoid the precarious predicament outlined above. By washing away the foods and sugars from leftover food and diluting the acids that the bacteria produce, water consistently cleans the mouth with every drink. One should still take care to brush twice a day, but there’s really no downside to drink water as one’s primary beverage throughout the day.
It Keeps Your Teeth Strong
Water and fluoride are one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities. Numerous studies have been conducted that have concluded that populations with fluoride in their water are less prone to tooth decay than populations without. Drinking and rinsing with water containing fluoride is a great way to maintain a healthy smile and stay hydrated while doing so.
Dry Mouth No More
Drinking water is beneficial when saliva is in short supply, as it helps keep levels high. Saliva, comprised of 95% water, is the body’s initial defense against tooth decay. Like water, it rinses away excess food debris, assists with swallowing, and transports calcium, fluoride, and phosphate to the teeth.
While water can provide a temporary solution to dry mouth, it is recommended that patients check with their dentist concerning long-term treatment.
Stay Healthy
Water does not contain any calories–and, contrary to sweetened drinks, studies have shown that it actually assists with weight loss. The combined with the other oral health benefits water offers make it an easy choice for a go-to beverage.
Drink water provides many health benefits for your teeth. Consult your dentist for further information.
