Canadians, like many people around the world, also experience plenty of oral health problems. Oral health problems are common for most people. If you brush and notice bleeding or tender gums, oral infections, and sensitivity, you are likely to suffer from gingivitis. If these problems are ignored for too long, things can worsen and can lead you to have halitosis or lose a few teeth. If you want to keep your mouth healthy, a simple solution is to drink more water.
The human body is 60% water. Water is an important resource that the body needs to carry out the necessary functions to stay alive. Without enough water, the body will not properly function. If things got worse, serious problems could occur. The more hydrated you are, the healthier your body will be. This is also true for your teeth and mouth. When you drink more water, your oral health will also improve. Here are the benefits that a dentist in Oakville, Toronto, and other parts of the country would tell you about taking the right amount of water in:
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Water Keeps the Mouth Clean
Unlike sugary drinks, water does not leave any residue on the teeth and mouth for bacteria to feast on. Water helps keep the mouth clean compared to other types of beverages. It can also help flush bacteria, food debris, and excess food sugar to avoid the build-up of bacteria. Drinking water regularly will help clean the mouth several times a day to help decrease bad breath and lower the risks of tooth and gum diseases.
Water Fights Dry Mouth
An Etobicoke dentist will tell you that dry mouth or xerostomia refers to the condition where plaque builds up because the mouth is not producing enough saliva. Saliva plays a huge role in helping protect the mouth, teeth, and gums. Much like water, saliva also washes away food debris and fights bacteria that cause cavities. Minerals in the saliva help strengthen and rebuild the tooth enamel and when the mouth is dry, it becomes susceptible to damage. Drink more water to keep the mouth hydrated and for it to produce more saliva.
Water Helps Restore Tooth Enamel
Remineralization is another reason for you to drink more water. The tooth enamel has a higher mineral content than your bones so drinking water with trace minerals and fluoride can help restore and strengthen it. Drink filtered or distilled water that still has the mineral and fluoride contents that will help your teeth.
Water Is Calorie-Free
Unlike sweetened drinks that have sugar and high calories, water has virtually none of these. Craving for sugary drinks will put your mouth at risk for cavities and your body of weight gain. If you are looking for a drink that can keep your mouth and teeth happy and your weight in control, drink more water.
How to Drink Water
As water is a crucial part of keeping your mouth and whole body you need to drink it wisely. Here are some tips to correctly keep yourself hydrated:
- Carry a bottle of water with you anywhere you go. When you have easy access to it, you are more likely to drink when you are thirsty instead of just waiting until you find a good source.
- Monitor the amount of water you drink on a daily basis. There are different smartphone apps that you can download to efficiently keep a record of your daily water intake.
- Sip water gradually throughout the day instead of gulping down a large amount at once. It will help you absorb the nutrients better and avoid being bloated.
- Drink water before and after meals. Drinking water before a meal helps decrease the amount of food that you will eat and helps clear the mouth of food debris.