Do you prefer bottled water over tap water? Did you know that tap water may actually be better for your teeth? In light of National Drinking Water Week, Dr. Gilly Calcagno and our team at Calcagno Cosmetic & Family Dentistry discuss the benefits of tap water and how water consumption is important to maintaining optimal oral health.
Tap Water Benefits
For over 60 years, local water supplies throughout the United States have been treated with minimal amounts of fluoride. The common ratio of fluoride to water is about one part fluoride for every million parts of water. Fluoride is a mineral that naturally occurs in spring water and certain foods. The American Dental Association along with the FDA approve of drinking fluoridated water because of its oral health benefits. Because your tooth enamel is composed of minerals, fluoride helps replenish daily mineral loss which ultimately protects your teeth from cavities. However, many people consume bottled water more frequently than tap water. Bottled water only contains miniscule amounts of fluoride. The Center for Disease Control has attributed bottled water use to one of main causes of the recent increase of tooth decay in the United States—especially among children.
Water & Your Oral Health
In addition the benefits of fluoride intake, water also helps dilute acid in your mouth and rinse away debris and bacteria. Dr. Calcagno strongly encourages patients to consume at least 8 glasses of water each day. We also recommend that you rinse your mouth with water after every meal.
For questions or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gilly Calcagno, contact our Rochester dentist office at (507) 281-3659. We provide cosmetic, restorative, and preventive dentistry to residents of Rochester, St. Charles, Red Wing, Farmington, Hastings, Winona, and the surrounding communities.
