H2O and Oral Health

Water is wonderful, there’s no denying it, and not only does sipping high-quality H2O benefit your body, it’s also really great for your teeth.  Did you know that the human body is made up of 60% water? When you stay hydrated, your system works more efficiently to distribute healthy nutrients, get rid of waste, keep your muscles moving, and give your skin a healthy glow. Fluoridated water is also the best beverage for your pearly whites. Check out these oral health benefits according to a recent article from the American Dental Association’s, MouthHealthy.org.

• Fluoride, AKA “nature’s cavity fighter,” is one of the easiest ways you can help prevent cavities. Studies have shown that residents in cities that add fluoride to their community water systems have less tooth decay than those living in areas without fluoridated water. It doesn’t get much easier than that!
• While consuming juice, soda or sports drinks may help temporarily quench your thirst or wash down your meal, they leave sugar on your teeth long after you’ve swallowed. That sugar is what the cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth feed on, producing acid that breaks down enamel, or the protective shield of your teeth. Water, on the other hand, cleans your mouth when consumed, washing away leftover food and residue. Drinking water doesn’t replace the need to brush twice a day, it does go a long way toward keeping your smile bright.
• Drinking enough water helps fight dry mouth, which can wreak havoc on your oral health. Saliva plays an active role in the defense against tooth decay, helping to wash away food and acid while making swallowing easier. Your risk of developing tooth decay significantly increases when you experience dry mouth. Drinking plenty of water can help cut that risk while you and your dentist find a long-term solution for the problem.
• Not only are sweetened drinks full of sugar, they are also high in calories. The combination of sugar and calories puts you at risk for cavities and other unhealthy consequences, such as weight gain. Consuming water not only combats tooth decay but has also been shown to help individuals lose weight.

Water is, by far, your best beverage option, helping to keep your teeth free of decay while helping your body run at peak performance. Before you grab a soda or sports drink, do your body a favor and reach for the water.