National Hydration Day
The human body contains more than 60 percent of water. Maintaining this balance, especially during the hot summer months, can be challenging. Becoming overheated or dehydrated can lead to more severe medical problems including heat stroke and even death.
There are ways to help prevent dehydration. Being hydrated before physical activity or spending an afternoon outdoors is very important. If you are under hydrated before you start it is hard to catch up. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and during your outdoor activities. Once you are home, your body will need to continue to replenish fluids.
Keeping your body healthy is a key function of water, but it also plays a critical role to your overall dental health. Here are a few ways water can help your teeth and gums.
1. Rinse away harmful bacteria
Drinking water after eating can help cleanse your palate, teeth and breath, especially when you can’t sneak away to brush. Food leaves behind remnants that break down into cavity-causing acids. Drinking water with your meal and having a glass of water right after your meal will help wash away those bits of food and bacteria before they can wreak havoc in your mouth. Drinking water also helps dilute the acidity in your mouth.
2. Strengthen enamel
Did you know that the surface of your teeth is the hardest substance in the human body? Harder than even bone, enamel is 96% mineral. But if you don’t watch out, acidic foods and drinks can quickly soften this important defense. To protect your teeth against tooth decay, choose fluoridated tap water. Fluoride helps harden your enamel, making it more difficult for cavities to form. If your local water supply isn’t fluoridated, talk to your dentist about fluoride supplements.
3. Fight dry mouth
Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, it also raises your risk of gum disease and decay. Saliva helps wash away harmful bacteria and acids. Keep water nearby and sip throughout the day to keep your mouth moist.
4. Keep you hydrated
Other drinks just don’t compare. Water is the best way to hydrate and will quickly quench your thirst for a healthy mouth and body.
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