Summer is now in full swing, and it’s looking like this one will be a scorcher! That said, while you’re out enjoying yourself this season, it’s important to stay cool and drink enough water to stay hydrated. Water is the best thing you can drink for your body—and even your oral health greatly benefits from proper hydration. However, some of the signs of dehydration aren’t always obvious. Keep reading to learn more from your dentist about why hydration matters and some of the sneaky, hard-to-detect signs of dehydration that you should address.
Why Hydration Matters
Your body is mostly water, so it makes sense that it’s the absolute best thing you can drink. But hydration also specifically benefits your oral health in many ways, primarily by helping your mouth produce enough saliva. Your saliva is responsible for neutralizing the cavity-causing acids produced by oral bacteria while also rinsing away lingering food particles and debris. Without enough saliva, you’re more vulnerable to tooth decay, gum disease, and other potential oral health problems; so, drink up and keep your mouth moist!
Seven Sneaky Signs of Dehydration
It’s important to note that feeling thirsty is not the only symptom of dehydration; in fact, you’re often already dehydrated by the time you feel like you need a drink! Be mindful of these seven sneaky signs of dehydration:
- Bad breath/dry mouth – Foul-smelling bacteria will thrive and make your breath stink if your mouth doesn’t have enough saliva. This can also lead to mouth sores and infection!
- Headaches – Even mild dehydration can lead to headaches, or sometimes even migraines.
- Flu-like symptoms – Sometimes you can experience dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, fever, chills, or cold/flu-like symptoms during serious cases of dehydration.
- Hunger – Sometimes you can feel hungry right after eating; this is because the same part of your brain controls thirst and hunger. It usually means you’re thirsty or dehydrated.
- Fatigue – You might feel lethargic or unenergetic due to dehydration and might also have trouble getting good-quality sleep.
- Muscle cramps – Athletes aren’t the only ones who can get cramps; sometimes simply walking around on a hot day can lead to a painful cramp if you aren’t hydrated.
- Dark-colored urine – If your urine is a darker shade of yellow, drink some water. Clear, pale-yellow urine means you’re good to go.
How to Stay Hydrated
There’s no set rule for how much water you should drink every day; simply drink when you’re thirsty and stop when you’re not! However, since thirst often sets in after you’re already dehydrated, it’s helpful to drink water in advance of physical or outdoor activity. Spending time in the sun causes your body to sweat and lose fluids, so also consider carrying a refillable water bottle with you while you’re out and about.
Dehydration can lead to some serious health concerns; your whole body, including your oral health, is put at risk if you don’t drink enough water! That said, knowing the importance of hydration and what the signs of dehydration look like can ensure that you’re all set for the warmer weather ahead.
About the Practice
Advanced Dental Concepts serves the dental needs of the Chesterton community under the leadership of Dr. Danny Hayes, and Dr. Stephen Koveck. The practice is proud to offer a wide range of available services including preventive, cosmetic, restorative options and more. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit, you can contact the practice online or by phone at (219) 926-7595.