Hydration is essential for the body to function properly, but few people know that it also plays an important role in oral health. This is because saliva acts as a type of natural protection for the mouth, helping to neutralize acids, control bacteria and prevent problems such as cavities and gum disease.
Can drinking too little water harm the health of your teeth? Dentist explains
Hydration is essential for the body to function properly, but few people know that it also plays an important role in oral health. This is because saliva acts as a type of natural protection for the mouth, helping to...
According to dentist Andressa Zaccaro, coordinator of the Dentistry course at Faculdade Anhanguera, insufficient water intake can compromise this defense mechanism and favor the emergence of different changes in the oral cavity.
"Saliva is responsible for keeping the mouth moist, aiding digestion and protecting teeth and oral tissues against the action of bacteria. When there is a reduction in its production, the person becomes more susceptible to problems such as bad breath, cavities and gum inflammation", he explains.
Next, the teacher highlights some signs that the lack of water may be affecting oral health.
1. Frequently dry mouth
The constant feeling of dry mouth is one of the main signs of dehydration. Reducing saliva favors the proliferation of bacteria and increases the risk of oral problems.
2. Persistent bad breath
Saliva helps eliminate food residue and control microorganisms present in the mouth. When its production decreases, the bacteria responsible for the bad odor find a more favorable environment to develop.
3. Higher incidence of cavities
In addition to naturally cleaning the oral cavity, saliva contributes to the remineralization of teeth. With less saliva, the action of acids produced by bacteria intensifies, favoring the appearance of cavities.
4. Teeth sensitivity
Dehydration can favor the wear of tooth enamel and increase the exposure of the most sensitive structures of the teeth, causing discomfort when consuming hot, cold or sweet foods.
5. Inflamed gums
Lack of hydration can also contribute to the accumulation of bacterial plaque, favoring gingivitis and other periodontal diseases.
How to keep your oral health up to date?
In addition to maintaining an adequate oral hygiene routine and regularly visiting the dentist, drinking adequate water is a simple measure that helps preserve saliva production and the health of the mouth as a whole.
"In many cases, small daily habits make a difference. Staying hydrated is a way of contributing not only to general health, but also to the prevention of various oral diseases", he concludes.
Read Also: Body and mind: the invisible relationship between obesity and mental health
Source: Noticias ao Minuto - Lifestyle
This story was originally published by Noticias ao Minuto - Lifestyle. Visit the original publication for further details.
Open original publication
