Living in the beautiful state of Colorado certainly has its perks! There's lots of sunshine, a wealth of outdoor activities, and no shortage of stunning views and mountain scenery.
But living at a higher altitude comes with downfalls, too, such as decreased levels of oxygen, challenges regulating blood pressure for some people, and dehydration. These side effects can sometimes impact dental health. Here's what you should know.
Maintaining Your Dental Health at Higher Elevations
A direct result of dehydration is dry mouth, which occurs when insufficient saliva is produced to keep the mouth moist.
Believe it or not, saliva is integral to your dental health. It acts as a natural tooth protectant by neutralizing the acids produced in your mouth by bacteria. It helps with digestion and washes away excess food particles left in your mouth after meals, decreasing the chances of developing problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
If you don't have enough saliva in your mouth, it can result in dry mouth, which leads to concerns such as:
- Challenges with chewing and swallowing food
- Cracked lips
- Sore throat
- Increased chance of developing sores or lesions in the mouth
- Chronic bad breath
- Increased risk of developing dental problems, like tooth decay and gum disease
While the higher elevation in Colorado increases your risks of developing dry mouth, the good news is that you can take steps to prevent the condition.
Helpful Tips to Protect Your Smile at a Higher Elevation
Keeping dry mouth at bay doesn't have to be difficult when you know what to do.
- Stay Hydrated—Drinking plenty of water is the key to staying hydrated at higher elevations.
- Eat More Fruits and Veggies—Fruits and vegetables increase saliva flow and neutralize the acids in your mouth that promote tooth decay and cavities.
- Brush with Fluoride Toothpaste—Fluoride helps remineralize and protect your teeth from decay.
Is it time for your next dental appointment? Contact your dentist in Boulder at (303) 449-9487 to book an appointment.