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Water is truly wondrous for your health. It cleanses your body of toxins, helps your skin to be bright and healthy, and even has been shown to boost energy. Drinking water can also help ward off tooth decay and cavities. But can the condition of it impact your oral health? Read on to learn more about the connection between water quality and your teeth!
In simple terms, yes, the quality of the water you drink does impact your oral health. While first-world countries, like the U.S., have access to clean, safe drinking water (for the most part), other places arenāt as fortunate. Water that does not contain fluoride, as well as having detrimental levels of other components, has been proven to have a negative influence on teeth.
A recent study conducted in Indonesia revealed that children who drank water with no fluoride and high levels of manganese and acidity had increased cases of cavities. All the children, who were under the age of 10, had various stages of tooth decay. Subsequent studies have supported these conclusions, which further support the link between quality water and optimal dental health.
Although Americans have had access to clean, safe water from their faucets for the past century, bottled water has become increasingly popular over the past 40 years. Many people believe buying water in prepackaged bottles is better than tap water. However, bottled water doesnāt contain fluoride, which is a naturally occurring mineral that has been linked to healthier, stronger teeth. Since the mid-1940s, compounds containing the mineral fluoride have been added to community water supplies throughout the United States to prevent tooth decay, which helps to prevent cavities and provides extra protection to your teeth.
In addition, bottled water uses massive amounts of plastic. Tap water is a great choice for those who want to be more environmentally friendly.
Although the majority of tap water provided through the water supply is safe and high-quality, some people donāt enjoy the taste, especially after drinking packaged water. There are others who simply donāt trust tap water. Filtered water provides an excellent solution!
But does it deliver the same quality as tap water? The answer really depends on the filter you are using. For example, some filters (unbeknownst to their users) completely remove fluoride from the water. Therefore, itās always a good idea to conduct thorough research on the product before purchasing it. You may even want to ask your dental team about which ones they recommend. After all, they are your greatest allies when it comes to the condition of your teeth and gums!
Drinking water is not only an essential part of your overall health but your oral health too. By choosing quality sources, you can keep your smile healthy for years to come!
Dr. Ivan Chan is a compassionate restorative dentist in Glendale, committed to improving oral health and helping patients achieve beautiful smiles. Raised in Sacramento and inspired by his family of dentists, Dr. Chanās passion for dentistry began early. He earned his biology degree from UC San Diego, where he volunteered in free dental clinics for underserved communities, and then completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery at UC San Francisco, receiving extensive training in preventative, restorative, cosmetic, and implant dentistry.
Outside of his practice, Dr. Chan is passionate about giving back, having volunteered on mission trips with the US Navy and providing dental care in Mexico. These experiences have strengthened his belief that everyone deserves access to quality dental care.
Dr. Chan enjoys basketball, local breweries, and traveling. He values a healthy work-life balance, believing itās essential for both personal and professional growth.
To schedule a checkup and cleaning, contact him through his website or call 818-243-3838.
Dr. Ivan Chan is a compassionate dentist with extensive training in preventative, restorative, implant, and cosmetic dentistry. He earned his Biology degree from the University of California, San Diego, where he helped run free dental clinics for underserved communities. Dr. Chan received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of California, San Francisco. He has volunteered on mission trips in Mexico to provide quality dental care to underserved communities. Dr. Chan has also been on humanitarian missions with the US Navy on the USNS Mercy Hospital Ship. Committed to accessible, high-quality dental care, he combines expertise with a dedication to improving everyoneās oral health.
Dr. Jonathan Gao is a dedicated orthodontist with a passion for providing exceptional care. He holds a degree in Human Biology from UC San Diego and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from UC San Francisco (UCSF), where he also completed his orthodontic residency. Dr. Gao’s commitment to both research and community service earned him multiple awards, including Distinguished Volunteer and Provider of the Year at the UCSF Community Dental Clinic. His expertise, coupled with his dedication to serving others, underscores his reputation for delivering trustworthy, patient-centered care.
Dr. Moji Ghalambor is a highly skilled endodontist who is passionate about patient care and community service. He earned his Biology degree from Hope International University, where he also played collegiate soccer, and his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Southern California (USC). After practicing general dentistry, he pursued specialized training in Endodontics at USC. Dr. Ghalambor served as class president for four years and participated in mission trips to Belize, Cambodia, Nicaragua, and Panama. His expertise, leadership, and commitment to underserved communities define his trustworthy approach.