You already know that clean water does a body good, but when was the last time you stopped to think about how the water you use to brush your teeth or even rinse your veggies and other food affects your dental care and oral health? Just like your choice of toothpaste, floss, and toothbrush all play a role in how well you care for your teeth, so does the water you use to brush and floss (and drink).
At Manhasset Dental Arts, our dentists and dentistry team offer a range of general and cosmetic dentistry services for the entire family at our office in Manhasset, New York.
It turns out that in addition to preventing tooth decay via the fluoridated tap water most of us use every time we brush our teeth, drinking enough clean water is also essential for your dental health in several ways.
In addition to washing away the bacteria and acid on everything you eat and drink, drinking enough water throughout the day also keeps the saliva flowing, which is one of our strongest natural defense systems against tooth decay-causing buildup.
Even better, drinking more water can help you cut back on sugary snacks and drinks that increase your risk of developing plaque buildup and cavities.
If you drink coffee, consume alcohol and tobacco, or eat sugary foods, drinking enough water throughout the day is especially important to prevent dry mouth.
It’s hard to find just about any food or beverage these days that doesn’t contain a shockingly high amount of added sugar. Even foods and beverages that are marketed as low in sugar or “sugar-free” can contain dangerously high amounts of added sugar if you’re not careful. Drinking clean water will help you maintain a healthy weight and get the hydration you need without added sugar.
That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an occasional sweet drink from time to time; just be sure to read the labels and check the sugar contents to make sure you’re not getting more added sugar than you bargained for.
Brushing and flossing with fluoridated water and drinking enough clean water every day, along with eating a healthy diet and avoiding tobacco and drinking alcohol in moderation are the best things you can do to protect your oral health at home. Going to the dentist every six months for a checkup and dental cleaning will also help to minimize your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and to catch any dental problems before they lead to permanent damage.
For more information about the best oral hygiene and dental care practices to maintain healthy teeth and gums, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Manhasset, New York.
