Can Dehydration Affect Your Oral Health?

Most people like to spend their summer days outdoors, soaking up the beautiful warm weather. Unfortunately, many tend to sweat a lot under the hot sun and forget to replace the fluids they’ve lost, causing dehydration. Water makes up more than two-thirds of your body, meaning any loss of fluids can affect normal bodily functions. Did you know it can affect your oral health too? Learn which signs of dehydration to look out for and the consequences it can have on your smile.

How Does Dehydration Affect Oral Health?

Everyone knows the importance of staying hydrated during the warmer months, as dehydration can have detrimental effects on your body (i.e., persistent vomiting, diarrhea, heat cramps, heat stroke). But how does it affect your oral health? Dehydration can cause your saliva production to decrease, which increases your risk of dry mouth and dental disease. Plus, saliva plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy mouth by washing away food particles and harmful bacteria.

Signs of Dehydration

It can be hard to tell when you’re dehydrated as some signs are very subtle. Also, symptoms can vary depending on age and other factors. Either way, here are some general signs that point to dehydration.

Young Children and Infants

If your little one is crying without tears or hasn’t wet their diaper in over three hours, then they’re likely dehydrated and need water ASAP. Other signs to look out for are a dry mouth and tongue, sunken cheeks, irritability, and listlessness. Since infants have low body weight, they can become dehydrated even with slight fluid loss. Make sure your little one is drinking enough water, especially in hot weather!

Adults

Excessive thirst, less urination, and dark-colored urine are common signs of dehydration in adults. In addition, some adults may experience dizziness, fatigue, confusion, muscle spasms, cramps, and a headache. If you’re diabetic or have a history of alcoholism, you are more vulnerable to dehydration.

Tips to Stay Hydrated

There are several ways you can keep your body hydrated and healthy, including:

• Drinking plenty of water when you’re thirsty
• Always keep a reusable water bottle with you
• Hydrate before, during, and after strenuous exercise
• Consuming foods with high water content (fresh fruits and vegetables)
• If you’re not a fan of plain water, try drinking herbal tea or fruit-infused water instead

Don’t let your summer be affected by dehydration. By consuming enough fluids, you can keep your mouth and body in their best shape for life!

About the Practice

Our goal at Renaissance Dental is to give every patient high-quality, personalized, and compassionate dental care beyond what can be found anywhere else. From a checkup to a complex smile makeover, we can do it all under one roof! For more information on how to protect your smile this summer, visit our website or call (817) 289-5200.