Why staying hydrated matters in oral care
Saliva production
Saliva is a remarkable fluid that serves as a natural defence system for your mouth. It contains enzymes and minerals that help break down food, neutralise acids and fight harmful oral bacteria. However, when you’re dehydrated, your body can’t produce enough saliva, which can lead to a range of oral health problems.
Dry mouth
Dehydration often results in a dry mouth, a condition known as xerostomia. Dry mouth can cause discomfort, difficulty swallowing and bad breath. Without adequate saliva, your mouth is less effective at rinsing away food particles and bacteria, leaving your teeth and gums more vulnerable to decay and infections.
Tooth decay and cavities
Saliva doesn’t just help with digestion; it also plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay. It contains minerals like calcium and phosphate that help to remineralise your teeth, repairing the damage caused by acids produced by bacteria. When you’re properly hydrated, your saliva can effectively carry out this repair process.
Dehydration and tooth decay
Inadequate saliva due to dehydration can result in a higher risk of tooth decay and cavities. Without sufficient saliva to counteract the acids in your mouth, harmful bacteria can grow, leading to the breakdown of tooth enamel and the formation of cavities.
Gum health
Staying hydrated doesn’t just benefit your teeth; it’s essential for the health of your gums as well. Dehydration can lead to a compromised immune system, making it easier for harmful bacteria to cause gum infections such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gum infections
When you’re dehydrated, your gums may become more susceptible to inflammation and infection. Proper hydration helps your body maintain a strong immune response, keeping gum diseases at bay.
Fresh breath
One of the more noticeable effects of dehydration is bad breath or halitosis. When your mouth is dry due to lack of hydration, there’s less saliva to wash away odour-causing bacteria and food particles. This can result in an unpleasant odour coming out from your mouth.
Combating bad breath
Staying well hydrated is a simple yet effective way to maintain fresh breath. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps flush away odour-causing compounds and maintain a moisture-rich environment in your mouth.

Tips for staying hydrated for better oral health
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily and adjust your intake based on your activity level and climate
- Limit sugary and acidic beverages that can contribute to tooth decay and dehydration.
- Chew sugar-free gum or use sugar-free lozenges to stimulate saliva production if you experience a dry mouth.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as they contain water and essential nutrients for oral health.
- Regularly visit your dentist for check-ups and cleanings to catch and treat oral health problems early.
Fluoridated water helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay and cavities. In Australia, 90% of communities have access to fluoridated drinking water, largely due to public health initiatives which add controlled amounts of fluoride to public water supplies.
Community water fluoridation promotes better oral health for all, contributing to brighter smiles and overall well-being. It is a cost-effective preventative measure which can reach entire communities, reducing oral health disparities and ensuring that even those with limited access to dental care can enjoy improved oral health.

Stay hydrated for good oral health
Staying hydrated isn’t just about quenching your thirst; it’s a vital component of maintaining good oral health and overall well-being. Adequate hydration promotes saliva production, helps prevent tooth decay and cavities, supports gum health and keeps your breath fresh.
If you make hydration a daily priority, you can smile with confidence knowing that you are taking a simple but effective step towards better oral care. So, don’t forget to drink those glasses of water—they’re good for your body and your beautiful smile.