Schedule AppointmentCombatting Dehydration for a Healthy Mouth
You become dehydrated when you use more fluid than you take in. This can have several negative effects on your body. Initial signs of dehydration include feeling light-headed or dizzy, having a dry mouth, or experiencing fatigue for no apparent reason. Dehydration goes much deeper than that, however, causing problems with your muscles, organs, salivary glands, teeth, and more.
Teeth? Yes! You might be surprised to learn what dehydration can do to your teeth, gums, and breath!
Can Dehydration Cause Tooth Pain?
Yes. If you don’t stay hydrated, resulting poor oral health can lead to dehydrated gums and teeth. This, in turn, leads to decay and gum disease. Liquids like saliva and water help wash away food particles and bacteria from your teeth..
Dehydration and Bad Breath
A dry mouth can also lead to bad breath. Again, bacteria is the culprit. Not only does saliva wash away debris, but it also works to neutralize bacteria in the mouth. Without saliva, the bacteria can cause mouth sores and make your breath smell bad.
Keeping Your Mouth Hydrated
To recover from dehydration, increase your fluid intake. You can do this by drinking more water and eating more fruits and vegetables that are naturally high in water content. Additionally, you can try special toothpaste and mouthwash designed to treat dry mouth.
If you continue to experience oral dehydration, speak with your dentist to rule out any possible health issues.
To learn more about dental hydration, schedule an appointment with the Art of Modern Dentistry. If you don’t currently have a dentist in the Lincoln Park or South Loop areas, reach out to us. We will happily welcome you as a new patient.
