How to Make Sure You Drink Plenty of Water Daily
Posted on 8/15/2025 by Dr. Frank K. Sioda |
 Water is essential for life. It makes up about 55% to 78% of your body and participates in many important bodily functions, including:
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Regulating body temperature. |
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Transporting nutrients and oxygen to cells. |
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Flushing out waste products. |
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Lubricating joints. |
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Protecting organs and tissues. |
When you don't drink enough water, you can become dehydrated. Dehydration can lead to several health problems, including headaches, fatigue, constipation, and kidney stones.
Getting enough water is especially important for good oral care. Water helps to:
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Prevent dry mouth. Dry mouth is a common problem that can be caused by a number of things, including certain medications, medical conditions, and dehydration. Dry mouth can make it difficult to eat, talk, and swallow. It can also increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. |
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Wash away food particles and bacteria. After you eat, food particles and bacteria can build up on your teeth and gums. Drinking water can help to wash these away, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease. |
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Dilute acids. The acids in your mouth can erode your tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Drinking water can help to dilute these acids, protecting your teeth. |
How Much Water Should You Drink?
The amount of water you need to drink each day depends on a number of factors, including your activity level, climate, and overall health. However, most adults should aim to drink around eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
If you're not sure how much water you should be drinking, talk to your doctor or dentist. They can help you determine the right amount of water for your individual needs.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
If you find it difficult to drink enough water, there are a few things you can do to make it easier:
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Carry a water bottle with you at all times. This will make it easy to take sips of water throughout the day. |
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Set reminders on your phone or computer to drink water. There are many apps that can help you track your water intake. |
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Add flavor to your water. Squeezing some lemon, lime, or cucumber into your water can make it more appealing. |
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Eat water-rich foods. Fruits and vegetables are a great way to stay hydrated. |
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Avoid sugary drinks. Sugary drinks can actually dehydrate you. |
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Drink water before you feel thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty, you're already dehydrated. |
Drinking Water and Prevention Dentistry
Staying hydrated is an important part of prevention dentistry. By drinking plenty of water, you can help to keep your mouth healthy and prevent cavities and gum disease.
In addition to drinking water, there are other things you can do to prevent dental problems, such as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups.
If you have any questions about how to keep your mouth healthy, please talk to your dentist.
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