Our bodies are 60% water. It is essential in maintaining everyday bodily functions. Aside from aiding physical performance, brain function, digestion, and weight loss, water is necessary to maintain good oral health. Let’s look at some of the many ways water can make your mouth happy!
Strengthens Teeth
Most city water contains fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that aids in preventing tooth decay. Systemic fluoride that is ingested as teeth are developing helps strengthen enamel as it is forming. Therefore, these teeth are less prone to tooth decay when they erupt in the mouth.
Keeps Mouth Clean
Ideally, we recommend brushing your teeth at least three times a day. When brushing isn’t possible, or if you are in between meals, drinking water is helpful. Simply drinking water rinses excess food away and reduces the acids in your mouth.
Fights Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a problem for many people. While water is not a “cure all” for dry mouth, it is an important component in keeping dry mouth at bay.
Reduces Bad Breath
Drinking water between meals or snacks helps rinse away lingering food and bacteria. Food and bacteria left behind after eating are often the cause of bad breath. For more information on dry mouth, click here.
Lowers pH Level
High pH levels in our mouths means high acidity which breeds bacteria that cause cavities. Our saliva is meant to aid in reducing this acidity, however some saliva is more acidic than ideal. Additionally, water (alkaline water, that is) reduces the acids in our mouth. In doing this, our teeth are less prone to cavities.
However, not all water is created equal. Most people are unaware that some is more acidic than others. Alkaline water is better for our mouths and for our bodies. Although many people reach for the bottled stuff these days, it is not always the best choice as far as acidity goes. Tap water usually has a neutral pH, which is great. The chart below is a wonderful resource to help determine which bottled waters are better for our teeth. Remember, neutral or alkaline drinks are better for our teeth because they do not contribute to decay.
*Chart provided by Air Water Life and Real Spirit USA, Inc
The staff at Adams and Cheek Dentistry is always here to answer any questions you may have about your oral health. Please do not hesitate to call us at 919.866.1360 or click here to contact us.
