Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Health-conscious individuals spend a great deal of time watching what they eat and drink each day. But if you play sports or workout, you may assume guzzling a sports drink is the best way to stay hydrated, assuming it’s the best choice. Spring is a time when most people enjoy the outdoors more and may reach for sports drinks to refuel and stay hydrated. A leading family dentist in Okemos, Dr. Christine Tenaglia of Tenaglia Smiles, shares four reasons to drink water instead of sports drinks to maintain optimum oral health and maintain hydration.
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Water helps balance and neutralize pH levels in the mouth
The foods and beverages you consume contain sugars and acids that can cause extensive damage to your natural tooth enamel. Highly acidic items include tomatoes, alcohol, sports drinks, and even some sugar-free items. Our Lansing general dentist explains that water has a neutral pH level that negates sugar and acids’ effects. Bottled water or reverse osmosis water could be below natural pH levels, so it is critical to read product packaging to find out more about the product prior to consumption. Remember to avoid or limit your intake of sparkling water as it is highly acidic.
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Water supports salivary function and protects delicate tissues
Saliva is a crucial element in your oral health. Consuming other beverages such as sports drinks, caffeine, alcohol, or sugary drinks could actually lead to dehydration and dry mouth, increasing your risk of dental diseases like gum disease and cavities. Dr. Tenaglia, an East Lansing dentist, recommends drinking water to prevent dry mouth and help promote better oral health.
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Water helps fight against harmful bacteria
Bacteria responsible for cavities consume simple carbohydrates and excrete damaging acids and create plaque that sticks to your teeth. Many sports drinks contain a large amount of sugar that fuels harmful oral bacteria. Plaque collects between your teeth and under your gums if not removed by a professional dentist. Okemos’ board-certified family dentist, Dr. Tenaglia, explains that it is easier for plaque to build up when you have a dry mouth. When you drink water, you remove most of the bacteria and food sources for bacteria to survive, although it’s not a replacement for daily brushing and flossing. Strive to drink more water and skip the sports drink after your next workout.
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Water is sugar and dye-free
Sugar is a perfect smile’s worst enemy. It is a significant food source for harmful bacteria to thrive and cause damage to your oral health without you realizing it until it is too late. Sugar in beverages, such as sports drinks, alcohol, and carbonated drinks increases your risk for tooth enamel damage or gum inflammation. Sports drinks also contain dyes used for coloring, which could stain your teeth.
Family Dentist Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Water is such an essential part of your overall well-being. It is a crucial, life-sustaining substance that is often chosen last as a source of refreshment. However, Dr. Christine Tenaglia of Tenaglia Smiles challenges you to increase your water consumption for a healthier body and better oral health. If you have questions about the benefits of water or need to schedule an appointment, feel free to call the East Lansing friendly dentist near you at Tenaglia Smiles by dialing (517) 347-6733.