There are many elements that affect the oral hygiene of our kids. With us firmly sitting in the summer, water is being promoted in the Vegas Valley to keep everyone hydrated, but water consumption plays another role as well. Training the little ones to brush at least twice a day, frequent flossing and using mouthwash are all the best habits for the kids to grow into adults, but there is more they can do to promote a healthy smile. Foods and beverages can make an impact on gums and teeth and choosing the wrong diet makes a difference. Today, we at Smile Reef would like to share the benefits and importance of water has for oral health.
1) Producing More Saliva
Chewing and swallowing can be difficult without adequate saliva. In addition, children often experience uncomfortable dry mouth. Simply by having your kids drink plenty of water, you can prevent the discomfort of dry mouth and assist in more efficient chewing and swallowing as more saliva is produced. With enough water, the kids’ enamel can be stronger and contribute to a cavity-free mouth.
2) Fluoride in Drinking Water
Fluoride is great for teeth’s health, and with the small doses found in tap water, kids teeth are better protected. To reduce tooth decay by at least 25% in both children and adults, fluoride use in water is effective as a preventative measure according to the ADA.
3) Water Helps Rinse any Residual Sugar & Acid from the Surface of Teeth
Any sugar residue clinging on tooth surfaces that causes cavities as well as leftover food particles that are left between your teeth surface when the children have finished eating can lead to cavities and other oral hygiene issues. Drinking water, especially during and after eating, will rinse away the residues and particles. While drinking water, encourage the little ones to rinse their mouth out for 30 seconds after eating before indulging in drinking their water to loosen up the particles.
4) Water is a Zero Calorie Drink
The United States has experienced a rising consumption in sugary beverages which is a major contributor to the increasing rate of obesity. Kids are 26% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes when they consume up to 2 sugary beverages per day. To avoid these consequences, substitute water for one of colas, sugary juices and sports drinks instead. Water is an incredibly healthy choice for beverage consumption for the little ones and there are no calories to be concerned with.
5) Encourage Kids to Drink More Water
Unlike other drinks, water is by far the healthiest beverage available. It is recommended that 8 glasses of water in 8 oz glasses every day should be drank by everyone, including kids. Having your kids drink water has many benefits in addition to promoting healthier oral hygiene.
Pediatric Dentistry
To keep your teeth and gums in excellent health, do not forget to schedule your child’s routine dental cleaning and checkup with Smile Reef today!
