Oral health: Prevent dry mouth and dehydration-related dental problems in summer

Bad breath and dehydration: Common symptoms of oral health in summer include cracked lips, ulcers on the tongue, sticky saliva, or persistent bad breath (Image: Canva)

Drinking water is always important, but it becomes even more crucial when temperatures soar. Dehydration can affect your entire body, including your teeth. In fact, your mouth is one of the first areas to show signs of dehydration.

A parched mouth can quickly lead to bigger oral health issues, including bad breath, cavities, and gum disease, says Dr Karishma Jaradi, Head Dental Surgeon, Dentzz Dental. “It’s easy to dismiss a dry mouth as a mild summer side effect, but it’s actually your body warning you," she says.

It is important to protect your mouth in summer and keeping saliva flowing is critical, says Dr Jaradi. “Saliva is nature’s defence mechanism for your mouth. It neutralises harmful acids, helps wash away food particles, and even replenishes your teeth with minerals. When the body is dehydrated, saliva production dips, leaving your mouth vulnerable to bacterial growth, enamel erosion, and gum inflammation. “Slowly, this can lead to conditions like gingivitis, periodontitis, or oral thrush,” she warns.

Also read | How oral health affects your well-being: 6 reasons why good dental care matters

Symptoms of oral health risks:

One of the first red flags that something is wrong with your saliva levels is a change in taste. “Foods may suddenly taste bland, metallic or slightly bitter. Other signs include cracked lips, ulcers on the tongue, sticky saliva, or persistent bad breath. These symptoms are manageable with some simple changes to your daily routine. The key is to stay ahead of the heat and give your mouth the tools it needs to stay protected,” says Dr Jaradi.

Protecting your smile starts with simple, daily habits that keep your mouth moist and healthy. “By drinking wisely, breathing well, and supporting your body’s natural defences, you can keep dental trouble at bay, even when the heat is relentless,” she says.

Tips to prevent dehydration:

• Keep yourself hydrated: Aim to drink at least two litres of water daily, more if you’re active. Eat high-water content foods like watermelon, cucumber, and tomatoes. Avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, coffee, and smoking as they dry out the mouth and increase your risk for decay.

• Encourage saliva production: Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free lozenges to encourage saliva production. “Saliva substitutes or moisturising mouth sprays, strictly recommended by a dentist,  can also provide instant relief,” adds Dr Jaradi.

• Breathe easy, literally: Summer allergies often block nasal passages, leading to mouth breathing, especially during sleep. This worsens dry mouth. Use saline sprays, decongestants, or a humidifier to maintain moisture. Don’t forget your daily brushing and flossing routine to keep bacteria at bay.