Hydration: Not Just for Summer Smiles

When summer temperatures soar, your body will remind you to drink more water by signaling thirst. At least that is true for most people. The truth is, even when temperatures lower to tolerable levels, hydration is still important for proper functioning of your body’s systems, for oral health and yes, for the health of your implants. Sufficient hydration is a critical factor in maintaining your oral health for reasons that may not be readily apparent.

Battling Dry Mouth

One of the most obvious reasons to stay hydrated is dry mouth. This condition develops when the saliva output is low and insufficient to keep the mouth adequately hydrated. Did you know that saliva does more than just keep your mouth moist?

Saliva has many functions in maintaining oral health. In addition to moisturizing your mouth, it also helps you chew, taste and swallow. It helps you maintain oral health by fighting the germs in your mouth and it prevents bad breath. Saliva also contains proteins and minerals that protect your tooth enamel, and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

When your body is not producing enough saliva, dry mouth, or xerostomia, develops. This condition can cause the tongue, gums and other tissues in the mouth to become swollen and uncomfortable. Bad breath can also result as harmful germs begin to proliferate.

The lack of moisture also causes tooth decay and gum disease develop quicker. Saliva helps clear away food particles and constantly bathes the teeth and gums with needed proteins and minerals. When saliva levels are lowered, more food particles remain in the mouth and there is less natural protection for the teeth.

Dry Mouth and Your Implant

Your implant needs a healthy oral environment in order to be successful. Dry mouth creates an unhealthy oral environment that can have serious consequences. The bacterial buildup that occurs as a result of lack of saliva affects your teeth and gums. Implants can develop peri-implantitis, which is a condition that can lead to implant failure. As the gums become swollen and bad bacteria increase in number, the gum tissues surrounding the implant become infected.

Keeping your mouth moist will help prevent this from happening. Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can help eliminate or minimize dry mouth. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is vital. Additionally, you can chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugarless hard candies to stimulate saliva production. Even rinsing your mouth with water often will help keep moisture in your mouth.

Ora Dental Implant Studio will help you keep your implants and your smile healthy. Call today to schedule your appointment with us.