There are plenty of sugary drinks that aren’t so great for your teeth, but have you ever wondered what the best liquid for your smile is? Turns out it’s a plain and simple one: tap water! Here’s why good ‘ol fashioned H2O benefits your overall oral health more than any other beverage.
Tap Water Helps Prevent Cavities
In the US, public drinking water (in other words, the water that comes from your sinks) contains trace amounts of fluoride. Even in small quantities, this naturally occurring mineral is known to strengthen teeth against cavities. Here’s how:
- Cavities form when harmful bacteria build up and produce enough acid to damage a tooth’s structure.
- Some of the dental minerals damaged during this process include calcium and phosphorus.
- Fluoride “repairs” these minerals, effectively slowing the rate of cavity growth.
So by drinking tap water, you expose your pearly whites to fluoride, which gives them a protective boost!
A Hydrated Mouth is A Healthy Mouth
Not many people know this, but dry mouth can contribute to bacteria build up. This common condition essentially interferes with your mouth’s ability to produce saliva, which, believe it or not, helps neutralize the bacteria responsible for cavities and gum disease. Less saliva often means these harmful bacteria are free to run rampant in the mouth.
Since it’s the number one most hydrating liquid, water is your best defense against dry mouth!
Some Water Every Day Keeps Stains Away
While tooth stains aren’t as bad for your smile as bacteria build up, they are an aesthetic annoyance for many people. Some even feel less motivated to take care of their teeth due to how tarnished they look.
Fortunately, there’s a simple way to help keep pesky stains away. That’s right – by drinking plenty of water! Taking periodic sips of water while eating meals or snacking flushes out strong pigments before they get a chance to settle in to your teeth.
Water + Regular Checkups & Cleanings = Effective Preventive Strategy
As essential as water is for taking good care of your teeth and your overall health, it’s not a “miracle solution.” In addition to making sure you stay hydrated, an effective preventive dental strategy also includes visiting your dentist for biannual checkups and cleanings. If you haven’t already, remember to schedule a checkup and cleaning before the end of the year.
About the Practice
Dr. Hasan Yap is a board-certified prosthodontist. At Island City Dental, he partners with Dr. Robert Smith and other highly experienced dentists to provide a comprehensive range of dental services to patients near Wilton Manors. If you’d like to know how you can take better care of your smile, contact Dr. Yap’s office at 954-564-7121 and book your checkup and cleaning today.