• National Drinking Water Week

    National Drinking Water Week

    Water.  Have you ever stopped to think about how many times a day you use water from the faucet?  Americans use drinking water many times a day, every day, for a variety of activities such as drinking, bathing, cooking and washing, just to name a few.

    Cavities and tooth decay are among the world’s most common health problems.  They are especially common in children, teenagers and older adults.  But anyone who has teeth can get cavities, including infants.

    If cavities aren’t treated, they get larger and can lead to severe toothache, infection and even tooth loss.  Regular dental visits and good brushing habits are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay, but drinking more tap water can help prevent cavities too!

    During National Drinking Water Week, let’s drink a glass together and learn how water can protect your smile.

    Tap Water Contains Fluoride – Which Protects Tooth Enamel.  The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that community water fluoridation is one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.  Tap water contains small amounts of fluoride – which is great for teeth.  Fluoride consumption is effective in preventing tooth decay by at least 25% in children and adults, according to the American Dental Association.

    Washes Sugar Away.  After you’re done eating, there can be leftover food particles between your teeth.  When food debris is left on teeth, it can turn into sugar, which powers enamel-killing bacteria that cause cavities.  You can prevent this by rinsing your mouth with water immediately after you eat.  Simply swish water around for 30 seconds after you eat to clear your teeth of any sugar or food leftover from your previous meal.

    Increases Saliva Production.  Saliva is mostly water and is critical in the fight against cavities.  When you are low on saliva, you will most likely experience dry mouth – a condition that makes it hard to swallow and chew because of a lack of saliva.  By drinking enough water, you ensure that your saliva is produced at an optimal rate, and prevent dry mouth.

    Water is Calorie-free.  Rising consumption in sugary beverages has been a major contributor to the increasing rate of obesity in the United States.  You can fight this by substituting colas, sugary juices and sports drinks with a glass of water.  Water doesn’t have any calories, and it contains no sugar.  Next time you are thirsty, try reaching for a glass of water instead.

    Drink More Tap Water.  Water is by far the healthiest drink available.   If you are worried you are not drinking enough water, and to prevent dehydration (especially during those hot summer months), try following the common guideline referred to as the 8 x 8 rule.  Each individual should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day.  This equals about 2 liters or half a gallon of water.

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