Hydration is essential for our oral and overall health. Our bodies use the water we drink for many processes. Drinking water helps rid your body of waste, move nutrients around your body, and keep your skin and teeth healthy. While getting all of the water you should take in each day can be challenging, we have a few tips to make getting the water you need easier.
How Water Benefits Your Oral Health
Drinking water, especially water with fluoride, helps to prevent cavities. Sugar from the drinks and snacks we eat and the acids in the beverages can erode the enamel on our teeth. Water also washes away leftover food and residue that lead to cavities. Saliva that also does the work of rinsing away debris is 99% water. Getting enough water helps you produce saliva. Without saliva, the dryness in your mouth can cause tooth decay.
How Much Water Should You Drink?
The Mayo Clinic recommends that women consume at least 92 ounces of water. The number is higher for men at 124 ounces per day.
Tips to Increase Your Daily Water Intake
Flavor Your Water
Avoiding water may be a matter of taste. If this is true, there are ways to improve the taste. Add fruit to your water. Lemons, limes, oranges, cucumber, and watermelon can add a sweetness that will enhance water taste.
Freeze fruit in ice cube trays and use these instead of ice to flavor and cool your water. Use mint leaves or rosemary for an exciting enhancement. You can also use sugar-free flavor packets to add a little taste to your water.
Add Water to Your Routine
Drink a glass of water before or after a meal, each time you finish a glass of juice or soda or when you wake and go to bed. Use a water bottle or jug and mark the amount you wish to drink each hour. This will help to begin a new habit.
Get Your Water From Foods
If drinking a ton of water sounds like too much work for you, remember that you can also get water from your food. Many fruits and vegetables high in water content include cucumbers, celery, lettuce, and melons. Make a fruit salad or kebab, grill your veggies on the grill, or make a smoothie.
Track Your Progress
Sometimes you don’t remember to drink water throughout the day. Or you’re someone who needs the challenge to reach your goals. Each day set a water goal and track every glass you drink to achieve that goal. Use a smart water bottle or phone app and challenge your family members to a water intake contest.
Up Your Water Game for Good Oral Health
Dr. Stephen Coates DDS and his team are dedicated to helping you and your family maintain optimal oral health. Drinking water can help you do this. Follow these tips and work with your family to think of other ways to increase water intake for everyone. And remember to keep your regular dental appointments. Need to schedule your next dental checkup? Click here or give us a call at 562-434-6414 today!
