Staying Hydrated While Keeping Your Teeth Healthy This Summer

We all know that staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good overall health. Did you know that it is also essential for keeping your teeth healthy?  Proper hydration plays an important role in oral health. It helps prevent dry mouth, reduces the risk of tooth decay, and supports the natural defense mechanisms of your mouth. Let’s explore the importance of staying hydrated and provide tips on how to maintain optimal oral health while quenching your thirst this summer. 

Role of Hydration in Oral Health:

Hydration is vital for maintaining a healthy mouth and preventing a range of dental issues.  Here is how proper hydration supports oral health: 

1. Saliva Production: Drinking an adequate amount of water stimulates saliva production, which is essential for rinsing away food particles, neutralizing acids, and maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth. 

2. Preventing Dry Mouth: Dehydration can lead to dry mouth, a condition where the mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva. Dry mouth creates an environment that promotes bacterial growth and increases the risk of tooth decay and causes bad breath. If you take prescription medications, they can contribute to reduced saliva production, making staying well hydrated even more important. 

3. pH Balance: Staying hydrated helps maintain a balanced pH level in your mouth. A well-hydrated mouth is less acidic, which reduces the risk of enamel erosion and tooth decay. 

Tips for Staying Hydrated and Protecting Your Teeth:

1.  Water, the Ultimate Hydrator:  Make water your primary beverage of choice. It’s calorie-free, sugar-free, and does not contain any acids that can harm your teeth. Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and wash away any food debris. But remember, adding any fruit or flavoring can turn your water acidic and cause harm to your teeth. 

2. Opt for Fluoridated Water:  Choosing fluoridated water can provide an added benefit to your teeth. Fluoride strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Unfortunately, most tap water in Sonoma County does not contain fluoride, so consider using a fluoride mouth rinse like ACT or speak to your dentist about fluoride treatments. 

3. Say No To Sugary Drinks: Limit your consumption of sugary drinks like soda, sports drinks and fruit juices. These beverages not only contribute to dehydration but also contain high amounts of sugar that can lead to tooth decay. If you do consume them occasionally, make sure to drink them within 10-20 minutes instead of sipping over a long period of time and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

4. Snack Smart: Instead of reaching for sugary or acidic snacks, choose water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, melons and celery. These foods not only provide hydration but stimulate saliva production. 

5. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: chewing sugar-free gum after meals or snacks can help stimulate saliva flow, aiding in neutralization of acids and removal of food particles. Look for gum that contains 100% Xylitol, a natural sweetener that can help prevent tooth decay. 

6. Maintain Regular Dental Hygiene: Staying hydrated compliments your oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. 

Staying hydrated is important not only for your overall health but also crucial in maintaining your oral health. By drinking water, choosing fluoridated options, and following good dental hygiene practices, you can keep your teeth and body healthy this summer. 

Remember, a well-hydrated mouth is a happy mouth. So, grab that water bottle, sip away, and keep your smile sparkling!

About the Author: Dr. Kasia Marelich graduated from Dartmouth College with a degree in Mathematics and earned her dental degree from Tufts University of Dental Medicine in 2012. She completed an General Practice Residency at the VA in Palo Alto, CA and received her Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry in 2022. Her passion is preventative dentistry and clear aligner therapy. She practices general dentistry in Santa Rosa, CA.