Sugar is bad for your teeth. It fuels harmful bacteria in your mouth, leading to the production of cavity-causing acids that attack tooth enamel. Plus, frequent sugar consumption disrupts the natural balance of your oral microbiome. This makes it harder for your saliva to neutralize acids and repair early damage. As your dentist, we recommend that you drink more water. It’s a great way to reduce sugar intake. 

If you’re like most people, you enjoy sweet drinks like soda. Problem is, they add a LOT of sugar to your diet. Check out this Mayo Clinic video that shows how much sugar is in a 20-ounce soda for a shocking visual. 

If you drink several sugary drinks a day, start swapping them out for water. H2O helps prevent cavities by rinsing away food particles and bacteria from your teeth. It also maintains saliva production, which neutralizes damaging acids in your mouth. It’s the best choice for a healthy smile! 

It’s great for your overall health too. It helps regulate body temperature, maintain your blood pressure, and aid in digestion. It can even help prevent headaches and promote great-looking skin. 

Fortunately, there are lots of good ways to boost your water intake:

  • Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times
  • Set reminders on your phone for regular water breaks
  • Add fresh fruits, herbs, or cucumber slices to make water more flavorful
  • Drink a glass of water before each meal
  • Eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, tomatoes, and melon
  • Hydrate before, during, and after exercise
  • Keep a water pitcher or dispenser visible where you’ll see it often
  • Set goals for daily water intake and reward yourself for meeting them

You should also visit us every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. We’ll remove damaging substances like plaque and tartar from your teeth. Your dentist will also address any small issues that have happened since your last visit to prevent them from becoming more serious problems. 

To schedule your next exam in Salem, OR, call Bickler Dentistry at 503-647-4645. And remember to drink more water. It’s great for your teeth – and the rest of you too!