Here Is a Friendly Reminder to Stay Hydrated This Summer

The most intense heat of the summer will be here before you know it. Whether you love to soak up the sun or you prefer to stay cool indoors, it can be easy to neglect proper hydration. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why hydration for oral health in Southlake is so important. You’ll also find a few useful tips for staying hydrated in the heat.

3 Big Reasons to Stay Hydrated

A lack of proper hydration can lead to a dry mouth. Without enough saliva in your oral cavity, you are at a heightened risk of:

• Cavities. Saliva washes away food particles and bacteria. Without an adequate saliva supply, those harmful bits can cling to your teeth and contribute to decay.
• Bad breath. Odor-causing bacteria tend to thrive in a dry mouth.
• Gum disease. A dry mouth can open the way for gum infection and inflammation.

Of course, oral health is just one major aspect of why hydration is so important. If you do not drink enough water, you could experience a range of unpleasant or even dangerous issues, such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and muscle cramps.

Tips for Staying Hydrated

Of course, one of the simplest things you can do to stay hydrated is to drink plenty of water. Some people use an app on their phone or smart watch to remind them to drink water, while others go so far as to have a smart water bottle. You don’t need high-end gadgets to stay hydrated, though. Just be sure to sip water regularly throughout the day, and increase your intake if you are sweating a lot.

Keep in mind as well that water by itself isn’t always enough to keep you completely hydrated. You lose key electrolytes through sweat, so those must be replenished as well. Here are a few tips to keep your electrolytes in check:

• Avoid sports drinks. Although these have electrolytes, they are quite acidic and can harm tooth enamel.
• Eat electrolyte-rich foods. Bananas, nuts, and leafy greens can all help to replenish electrolytes. Leafy greens have the added advantage of having a high water content.
• Sip on healthy beverages. Coconut water has been called “nature’s sports drink” because it contains a range of nutrients that promote hydration. It’s generally best to drink coconut water without added sugar or flavors. If you don’t have any problems with lactose, drinking milk can be another great way to stay hydrated. Its combination of protein, carbs, and sodium help the body hold onto fluids.

Don’t let the summer heat cause you to suffer from dehydration and dry mouth! Use the tips in this article to keep your smile and your body in great shape this summer.

Meet the Dentist

Dr. Preetha Thomas is a holistic dentist in Southlake who focuses on providing conservative care that considers patients’ whole-body wellness. If you need to schedule a summer checkup or have questions about how to care for your teeth, she would be happy to serve you. Contact Enclave Dental at 817-912-1218.