June 23 is National Hydration Day. While most people know about the importance of staying hydrated, reports show that up to 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Dehydration puts patients at risk for a host of oral health and total-body problems. This month, drink up and learn everything you need to know about hydration!

Why staying hydrated matters

Our bodies are approximately 60% water. Though you may be familiar with some side effects of dehydration (think: headaches or lightheadedness), you may not realize that your body uses water in nearly every function. In fact, some illnesses thrive in bodies that are suffering from dehydration. If you’re battling a condition like Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, or multiple sclerosis, it’s vital to stay as hydrated as possible. Here are some of the other many wonderful things that hydration can do for you:

• Aids in oxygen and nutrient delivery
• Improves sleep quality
• Cleanses and helps remove toxins
• Regulates your body temperature
• Boosts your immune system
• Helps your muscles and joints function
• Provides a skin-boosting glow
• Energizes your body
• Enhances mood and mental health

Staying hydrated also has oral health benefits. It prevents dry mouth, which occurs when your mouth does not produce enough saliva. This is often caused by dehydration and can contribute to many oral health problems, such as tooth decay, halitosis, and gum disease. Healthy saliva production washes away food particles in the mouth, neutralizes acids, and coats teeth in enamel-strengthening minerals, like calcium and phosphate. Drinking water regularly can cut your risk of dry mouth, leading to better oral hygiene.

Tips for healthier hydration:

If you are ready to stop being dehydrated, drink up! Everyone has different water needs depending on factors like age, physical activity, medications, and environmental conditions—so listen to your body as you improve your hydration. When drinking water, remember the following tips to ensure your smile is as healthy as can be:

• Freshen up your smile with water: Not sure where to add in extra water during your day? Try drinking up after mealtimes and snacks. Water can help wash away food particles while you’re in between brushes.
• Limit seltzers: Fizzy seltzer waters have been growing in popularity over the years. But don’t let them fully replace regular water. Some seltzers can be overly acidic or contain added sugars that damage your smile. Make these a once-in-a-while treat.
• Choose healthful water additives: Love adding flavor to your water? We do, too! Try lemon water with freshly grated ginger and a teaspoon of raw honey Raw honey rather than heated honey allows you to get all the medicinal healing properties. Your liver draws in raw honey to restore its glucose reserves, purging deep toxins with every sip!
• Know your fluoride: Be aware that tap water is fluoridated. If you are looking to decrease your fluoride consumption, filtered or bottled water may be a better option.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your smile and whole body are healthy while you stay hydrated. For more advice or to book your next appointment with our team, call us at 614.459.2300.

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