Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are the three most important ways to maintain your dental health. However, drinking plenty of water throughout the day also reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease. With summer on the way, staying hydrated is even more important, so we’re sharing 10 tips to drink more water to keep your teeth healthy.
Why Is Drinking Water Important for Dental Health?
You know how important drinking water is to your overall health, keeping you hydrated so your skin is healthy, your organs function more efficiently, and you can stay more energized. However, water is also great for your dental health.
- Rinses away dangerous bacteria and food particles in between brushing.
- Stimulates saliva production which is necessary for good dental health.
- Fluoridated water builds up and restores your tooth enamel.
- Rinses away acidic foods and beverages that can break down the tooth enamel, such as tomatoes or coffee.
- Rinses away tannins in dark beverages, such as cola, red wine, and coffee, that can stain teeth.
10 Ways to Drink More Water Each Day
Even knowing how important water is to function in a healthy way, it can be difficult to get the water you need. Fortunately, these 10 make it easy to stay hydrated, even when you’re on the go.
Know Your Water Needs
Knowing how much water you need makes it easier to hit your goal. While 64 ounces used to be the universal standard, that may not be accurate for you. More doctors are recommending between a half an ounce to an ounce for each pound you weigh, with more water on hot days or days when you’re active. Thus, for a person weighing 150 pounds, they would want to drink at least 75 ounces of water.
Start the Day Right
When you get up in the morning, drink 16 ounces of water to start the day right. You’ll probably be thirsty after not drinking for several hours, and this is a good way to get hydrated quickly. Consider drinking it while your coffee is brewing or sip while you get ready for work.
Drink a Glass After Every Bathroom Break
Whether you’re at home or at the office, after you stop by the bathroom, make another stop to fill up your water bottle or get a glass of water. This allows you to make this more of a habit. Plus, the more you drink, the more breaks you’ll need so you’ll get more water in during the day.
Drink a Glass of Water After Every Meal
Sitting down to lunch or dinner gives you a few extra minutes, and this is a great time to drink a glass of water. Wait until after you finish eating so the water rinses your teeth of any excess food particles or sugar.
Set Reminders
Set reminders on your phone or use Alexa or Google Home to remind you to drink water at intervals throughout the day.
Use an App
Apps can remind you to drink water, track how much you’re consuming, and help you set and meet goals. Try a free app like Daily water for an easy, effective reminder.
Consider a Reusable, Travel Bottle
If you’re on the go a lot (and who isn’t?) get a reusable steel water bottle or travel cup so you can fill it before you leave and while you’re out and about. Plus, you’re using less single-use plastics and saving money over buying bottled water.
Try a Smart Water Bottle
Water bottles have gotten smart! Connect your water bottle to your phone to get notifications and reminders plus it logs your intake for you. The HidrateSpark, Icewater, and DrinKup are all popular options that keep your drinks cold for hours and have sleek designs.
Add Flavoring
If you dread drinking water because it’s boring, you can change it up on your own without turning to sugary juice or sodas. Steep fresh fruit or veggie slices like strawberries, raspberries, lemon, or cucumber slices in your pitcher for a delicious infusion. You can also buy little packets or bottles of concentrated flavoring to boost the taste of your water.
Fill Up a Jug for the Day
Instead of trackers or apps, sometimes a clear, visual reminder helps you stay on track. Fill up a jug or large bottle with your daily goal and pour from it through the day.
Schedule an Appointment With Our Cary Dentists Today
If you are in need of a teeth cleaning or a checkup, we can help. Call us at our Holly Springs dentist office at (919) 600-6262 and our Cary, NC dentist office at (919) 467-2203, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.