Hydration…drink more water! You hear it over and over. I am a Registered Dental Hygienist and I help people prevent tooth decay and disease naturally. I ask all of my clients about hydration as part of your oral health assessment. Nine times out of 10 when I ask my clients how much water do you drink they reply “not enough”. Because if you are like most of us you know you need it. You just find it hard to drink it. A healthy amount of wat-er is 2 or more liters a day. And this varies according to your individual health and activity level. Visit this website for signs that you aren’t drinking enough water. I’ve heard water referred to as the most vital nutrient in our diet. But how does that relate to our mouth?

Why is water important in keeping your mouth and you healthy? Because drinking enough water ensures that you have enough saliva and that the consistency of the saliva is conducive to health. Yep saliva, spit or drool. This is part of your natural protection from disease. It’s important…vital in fact to your health.

How? Saliva contains bacteria. This important bacteria starts your metabolism. It also is involved in your immune function. Saliva is part of your first line of defense. It prevents invasion from viruses and other dangerous bacteria. The oral bacterial flora also determines if you get a lot of decay or a little. So if you are dehydrated you may have too many of the wrong bugs not enough of the good ones. What this means is you are going to be sick more often and/or are going to be prone to tooth decay and gum disease. Oral bacterial imbalances like those created by a dry mouth or illness can be treated with an oral probiotic.

Saliva also provides moisture. We have all experienced dry mouth. It’s not fun. Sufficient saliva moisturizes the tongue, gums and teeth. This prevents inflammation. Saliva also inhibits plaque formation. It helps foods clear the mouth and follow the path to your stomach. This moisture and the minerals contained within saliva are your primary barrier against dietary acids and the decay process. It protects and remineralizes. Without moisture and minerals your teeth will erode or decay very easily. Do you suffer from Dry mouth from other causes like medications maturing? It can be treated. Talk to your dental professional or give me a call.

Ok so now you how water and hydration are related to a healthier mouth.. But how can you incorporate more water into your diet? Here are some suggestions.

• Drink water immediately when you get up.
• Carry a refillable water bottle.
• Don’t like the taste consider infusing water. Visit this website for some amazing recipes.
• Like gadgets consider an app or a water reminder like the Ulla.
• Skip diuretics like coffee and choose an herbal tea to hydrate.
• Choose hydrating foods like cucumber, grapes or watermelon.Thank you for reading my post. If you have questions or comments I would love to hear them. 519-736-1100 or email [email protected].

Are you looking for a holistic approach to dental care in Amherstburg, Windsor/Esses? Do you want someone to help you prevent tooth decay and dental disease naturally. Or are you looking for dental care in comfort? Call Jen at Embrace Dental Hygiene today! 519-736-1100