Watch for These Signs of Summer Dehydration

As you may already know, Texas’ summer is now getting into the triple-digits. Some recent days have even set record-high temperatures! That being the case, it’s all too easy (and likely) for people to lose body fluid as they get out for fun in the sun. Such dehydration can cause problems for your well-being, even impacting your oral health. Fortunately, your dentist in Mesquite can help prevent these outcomes. Read below about dehydration’s oral health consequences, its symptoms, and tips on staying hydrated this season.

How Does Dehydration Affect Oral Health?

It’s a given that you’ll experience thirst when you’re dehydrated. However, your teeth and gums will also suffer.

The core problem is that dehydration causes saliva to dry up. As it turns out, the latter helps support a healthy mouth by washing away food particles and harmful bacteria. So, when you’re dehydrated and produce less saliva, your risk for dry mouth and dental diseases increases. Your teeth also get less exposure to calcium, phosphate, and fluoride, minerals that strengthen tooth enamel.

Signs of Dehydration

Some dehydration symptoms are subtler than others and can vary depending on age. Still, try to take note of specific signs for it in these two groups: ‘Young Children & Infants’ and ‘Adults.’

Young Children & Infants

Little tykes may be dehydrated if they cry without tears or haven’t wet their diaper in over three hours. Other signs could be a dry mouth and tongue, sunken cheeks, irritability, and listlessness. Since infants have low body weight, they can become dehydrated even with slight fluid loss.

Adults

The signs of dehydration for adults may feel more familiar. These include less urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, confusion, etc. Some people also report experiencing muscle spasms, cramps, and headaches. The National Institutes of Health has noted that those with diabetes and alcoholism are even more susceptible to dehydration too.

Tips to Stay Hydrated

To keep the summer heat from getting to you, stay hydrated by following these practices:

• Consume lots of liquids and foods with high water content, especially fruits and vegetables.
• Use your thirst as a guide to how much water you need at any given time.
• Hydrate the day before strenuous exercise, as well as during and afterward.
• Keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day.

As these summer months continue heating up, remember to drink plenty of water and other mouth-healthy beverages. You’ll not only quench your thirst but also keep your teeth shiny and healthy!

About the Author

Dr. Robert. E. Tafel is a dentist based in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. He believes building trust with patients is key to success in his work. He also ensures high-quality results thanks to his many hours of continuing education and modern dental equipment. Whether you need a dental checkup or a dental implant, he’s ready to tackle the issue. Dr. Tafel currently practices at Bear Creek Family Dentistry and can be reached at his website or by phone at (972)-331-5300.