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With the extended period of heat waves that we are currently having hydration is important for our whole body health.
Dehydration can have serious consequences for our mouths as well, and can damage our oral health on many levels.
Similar to the effects of dry mouth which can be caused by some medications or illness, dehydration reduces the amount of saliva that our bodies produce.
A decrease in saliva means that the body cannot clean out food residue and plaque as effectively from our teeth and gums.
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This then increases our risk of tooth decay and gum disease by creating an environment ideal for bacteria to grow. Dehydration can also cause difficulty in swallowing, eating, wearing dentures and sufferers can be more inclined to have bad breath.
If you are feeling thirsty you are already mildly dehydrated, the main causes are exposure to heat and exertion but can also be caused by vomiting and diarrhea from sickness and lack of access to drinking water.
Avoiding the effects of dehydration and the complications it can cause is simple, drink more water more often.
The recommended rate is eight glasses of water a day but increased heat and physical activity can mean that we need to drink more.
Hydration should ideally be with plain water.
Sports drinks and sugary soft drinks can help feed the bacteria that cause decay and gum disease.
If quick replacement of hydralites is required ensure these drinks are followed up by water to clear the sugars from your mouth.
Also bear in mind that dehydration can occur in the cooler months as well so ensure you monitor the amounts of water that you are having year round.
Anybody worried about the effects of dehydration on their teeth can call our friendly team at Toothkind Jimboomba on (07) 55478222.
