Summer brings longer days, rising temperatures, and plenty of outdoor fun. With the added heat and activity, your family will likely be drinking more water. But did you know that staying hydrated is essential for your child’s oral health and development? The benefits reach far beyond just quenching thirst. Read on to discover five ways staying hydrated this summer can help your family maintain happy, healthy smiles.
1. Water Helps Wash Away Food Particles
Drinking water is a simple yet powerful way to keep your child’s mouth clean. It helps rinse away food particles that can linger after meals. Sugary or acidic foods are especially problematic since they tend to stick to teeth and create an environment where harmful bacteria can thrive.
Encouraging your child to drink water right after eating helps wash away these residues and neutralize acids that may lead to tooth decay. For added protection, have them swish water around their mouth and spit it out to dislodge even more debris.
2. Strengthens Enamel
Water, especially when fluoridated, naturally strengthens tooth enamel. This outer protective layer of the tooth is essential for defending your child’s teeth against cavities. However, enamel can be weakened by acids found in sugary drinks, fruit juices, and certain foods. Drinking water helps neutralize these acids and supports remineralization, which allows enamel to rebuild and stay strong.
About 63% of the US population has access to fluoridated water. Simply drinking water from the tap in these areas is an effortless way to boost your child’s dental health without extra treatments or costs. If your home uses well water or bottled water, talk to your dentist about whether your child may benefit from fluoride supplements.
3. Supports Healthy Saliva Production
A healthy saliva flow is essential for children to maintain a clean and balanced oral environment. Saliva helps cleanse the mouth, neutralize acids, and reduce plaque buildup. Staying well-hydrated also helps prevent dry mouth, which can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Remind your child to sip water throughout the day. This helps keep their saliva flowing and their smile sparkling, especially on hot summer days when dehydration can quickly lead to dry mouth.
4. Helps Prevent Bad Breath
Stinky breath happens to everyone from time to time. But one of the quickest ways to refresh your child’s breath is to have them drink plenty of water. When your child’s mouth is dry, food particles and bacteria linger, which can cause unpleasant odors. Water helps rinse away these residues and moistens the mouth.
If your child has an active summer schedule filled with sports, outdoor play, and social events, make sure to pack a water bottle for them. Having water on hand helps them stay hydrated and the ability to give their breath a quick refresh whenever they need it.
5. A Healthy Alternative to Sugary Drinks
Water is the optimal drink choice for keeping your child’s teeth protected from cavities. Sugary drinks like sodas, fruit juices, and sports drinks are filled with acids and sugars that can erode tooth enamel and contribute to decay. Water, on the other hand, is free of these harmful ingredients and promotes optimal oral health.
Making water the go-to beverage option for your child this summer will help protect their smile from unnecessary risks. If your child prefers flavored drinks, consider infusing their water with fresh fruits like berries or oranges for a naturally sweet taste that is both hydrating and tooth-friendly.
Stay Hydrated This Summer!
As the weather warms up and your child spends more time outdoors, remember that water is not only essential for staying hydrated but also for maintaining a healthy smile. This simple habit can make a significant difference in your child’s dental health and keep their smile shining brightly. So, grab a water bottle, fill it up, and help your child make hydration a priority this summer!
