Overview
The body is always in need of water to perform properly. This is paramount because dehydration can lead to so many health problems, including dental issues. Drinking enough water will help reduce dental risks such as bad breath. The truth is this, your smile depends on water, and not getting enough of it can undoubtedly affect your oral/dental health.
1. Bad Breath
one thing that happens when you become dehydrated is bad breath. your body needs water to be able to produce enough saliva in your mouth. When there’s a scarcity of saliva, bacteria in your mouth tend to multiply. The good news is that drinking enough water throughout the day will help in keeping bacteria levels under control, as well as washing away food debris in your mouth.
Some people use bubble gum or mints to help ‘get rid’ or hide bad breath, but that only works for just a short while. It’s not a long-term or permanent solution for bad breath. This is due to the fact that it doesn’t, in any way, address the real cause of the issue.
2. Saliva
The very first defense against cavities is saliva. Why? Because it is majorly made up of water. Saliva is very essential to one’s oral health because it can help reduce/prevent some oral health issues. Did you know that when there’s a decrease in the amount of saliva that you produce, it may not only lead to gum problems but tooth problems as well? This is the reason there shouldn’t be a scarcity of saliva in the mouth.
Another reason saliva is essential to oral health is because it performs the following duties:
i. Removes food debris from your mouth.
ii. Gets rid of particles from your mouth.
iii. Removes harmful bacteria plaque that is resting on your teeth.
iv. Helps in repairing your enamel after acid attacks.
The sole danger of your mouth not producing enough saliva is the fact your mouth will automatically become the perfect ground for germs/bacteria to breed on. The end result is always disastrous; gum disease and cavities.
Another important benefit of saliva is that it helps with digestion. Know that the first phase of digestion starts in the mouth as you chew food. It is sort of difficult to chew and swallow food when the mouth lacks saliva; dry. The great thing about saliva is that it helps in moistening your food and helps it form into smaller pieces so as to help you swallow it easily. This said saliva contains what is known as an enzyme that starts breaking down starches before the food reaches the stomach.
3. Fluoride
fluoride is one of the most beneficial things that can help you prevent cavities. When fluoride reaches the teeth, it is absorbed into the enamel and helps repair the bacterial damage done to your tooth enamel, which in turn, replenishes the lost calcium and phosphorus to keep your teeth strong. This process of replenishing is referred to as remineralization. It helps to stop the decay process and also prevents cavities.
Try as much as possible to stay hydrated at all times. As a matter of fact, there’s no drinking too much when it comes to water. Drink water and drink some more. Adults should drink at least, a gallon of water per day. When working out or outside in the heat, drink water and drink more. Water is very crucial, not just to dental health, but to your overall being.
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