Research continues to demonstrate how intricately connected whole-body health is to dental health. When you take steps to improve your wellbeing, your smile benefits as well. Today our Tinley Park dentists are going to be talking specifically about the ways in which hydration can improve your smile. Keep reading to learn more…
H2O for Hydration
Staying hydrated is essential to staying healthy and maintaining a strong smile. When you are properly hydrated, your body is able to make enough saliva to support oral health. Patients who suffer from dry mouth experience increased rates of all kinds of oral health problems, including cavities, periodontal disease, and halitosis.
Saliva plays a number of important roles in maintaining dental health. First of all, saliva works to dislodge and flush away dental debris and plaque. Saliva also has re-mineralizing properties; it helps to strengthen your natural dental enamel so that your teeth are resilient and harder for bacteria to infiltrate. Saliva also dilutes acidic substances as well as odorous bacteria.
When you choose water over other beverages, you are giving your body the hydration-boost it needs, without introducing potentially problematic…
- Sugars
- Acids
- Discoloring agents
Additionally, water further encourages strong and healthy enamel, because it is enriched with fluoride. This naturally occurring mineral helps your teeth to re-mineralize and resist bacteria.
Tips & Strategies
So, when you are ready to improve your hydration routine, there are a few simple strategies you can try…
- Carry water with you; you don’t want to be dependent on nearby water fountains
- Use a large water bottle that allows you to track how much you’ve consumed
- Set reminders or alarms on your phone to remind yourself to drink water
- Track the amount of water you are drinking on your calendar or planner
- Pair drinking water with already-scheduled breaks in your day
- Commit to swapping on juice or soda for water each day
Start small by implementing one or two of these strategies, and see how your smile looks and feels as a result. You may be surprised!
And, of course, if you have any additional questions you can always reach out to our Orland Park dentists for help!