Children tend to have many drinks of choice, from juice to sports drinks and soda. But whenever possible, it’s always a good idea to serve water to your kids instead. Doing so can benefit their dental care and overall health in the following ways.

3 Reasons Why Children Should Drink More Water

1. It Maintains a Clean Mouth

Any liquid can help remove leftover food particles, but water does so without leaving any added sugars behind. Plus, it dilutes harmful acids produced by bacteria that erode your child’s enamel. While drinking water isn’t a substitute for dental care activities such as brushing twice a day and flossing every night, it can go a long way in keeping your child’s mouth clean in between.

2. It’s Healthier Than Sugary Beverages

Drinks like soda, juice, and sports drinks are often loaded with added sugars. For example, just one glass of apple juice has more sugar than most people should have in one day. Sugary drinks not only fuel decay-causing bacteria but also have added calories that contribute to weight gain. Water has no added calories or sugar and is a healthier choice all around.

3. It Prevents Dry Mouth & Bad Breath

Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable for children but can also put them at a higher risk of tooth decay. Saliva promotes dental care by helping teeth get the nutrients they need and washing away leftover food. Drinking water can stimulate saliva production, which also helps keep the related symptom of bad breath at bay.

In addition to a healthy diet, promote your child’s dental care with the help of Pedodontic Associates. With locations on Oahu and Maui, this team of pediatric dentists caters to patients as young as infants all the way through adolescence. They’ve served the community for more than 25 years. Find out more about caring for your child’s teeth online, or call one of their locations to schedule an appointment: (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului.