Does Staying Hydrated Impact Oral Health?

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy and happy life. We all know that brushing and flossing are crucial for preventing tooth decay and gum disease, but did you know that staying hydrated also plays a crucial role in your oral health? 

Hydration is key to keeping your body healthy. Drinking enough water helps to flush out harmful bacteria and food particles that can cause tooth decay and bad breath. Hydration helps to produce saliva, which lubricates the throat and removes plaque and bacteria from teeth. As it replenishes itself, it naturally washes your tongue, teeth and gums to prevent bad breath and protect tooth enamel. 

Hydration is a Preventative for:

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone that support the teeth. One of the main causes of gum disease is the build-up of plaque and bacteria on the teeth and gums. Drinking water and staying hydrated can help wash away food particles and bacteria that contribute to plaque build-up, reducing the risk of gum disease.

Enamel Erosion

Drinking water can help to protect your tooth enamel, which is the outer layer of your teeth. Tooth enamel is essential for protecting your teeth from decay, and it can erode due to acid produced by bacteria in your mouth. Staying hydrated can help to neutralise the acid in your mouth.

Dehydration

Your body will start to show signs of dehydration when you aren’t drinking enough water. You will become very thirsty and develop a dry mouth, dry skin, headaches, and possible muscle cramps. If you don’t listen to the warning signs, you can develop dizziness and a rapid heartbeat. If you experience sleepiness, lack of energy, confusion or irritability with these other symptoms, you should seek help immediately.

Dehydration increases the risk of oral thrush, making your mouth more susceptible to fungal infections. Oral thrush is a fungal infection that can occur in the mouth, causing white patches on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, and on the roof of the mouth. Drinking plenty of water can help to keep your mouth moist and reduce the risk of oral thrush.

When you’re dehydrated, your immune system is weakened, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. This makes your gums vulnerable to gum disease. If you have any oral surgery or dental work, staying hydrated is especially important. Drinking plenty of water can help promote healing by flushing out any bacteria that may be present in your mouth, and keeping the area moist can help reduce pain and swelling.

Conclusion

Staying hydrated is essential for good oral health. By drinking plenty of water, you can prevent dry mouth, reduce the risk of gum disease, protect your tooth enamel, promote healing, and prevent bad breath. So, make sure to stay hydrated and keep your mouth healthy.