Oral health is not only limited to brushing and flossing; Rather, it requires a comprehensive view that includes healthy nutrition and sufficient water consumption. Drinking water, as one of the simplest and most effective methods, plays an important role in strengthening and maintaining the health of teeth. In this article, we examine the effect of drinking water on tooth decay and its importance in preventing decay. **Why does tooth decay happen?** Tooth decay is the result of the activity of bacteria in the mouth that feed on sugars and produce acid. This acid destroys tooth enamel and causes cavities and serious damage to the tooth structure. Oral and dental hygiene and proper nutrition are the most important ways to prevent caries, but the role of fluoride is very prominent. **Fluoride and its role in preventing tooth decay** Fluoride is a natural substance that is widely present in water, soil and some foods. Research has shown that fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and increases its resistance to acid attacks. Drinking water enriched with fluoride is one of the most effective ways to reduce tooth decay in different populations. When fluoride is absorbed into tooth enamel, it creates a more acid-resistant substance that helps rebuild tooth enamel. Fluoride also reduces the activity of caries-causing bacteria and helps maintain the microbial balance of the mouth. **Benefits of fluoridated drinking water** Adding fluoride to drinking water as a public health solution has several important advantages: - Significant reduction of tooth decay rate in all age groups - Easy and cheap access to fluoride without the need for special equipment - Reducing dental treatment costs in the long term Global studies have proven that fluoridated water can prevent tooth decay by 30-40%. ### **Effect of quality and minerals in drinking water on oral and dental health** In the effect of drinking water on tooth decay, drinking water is not only a means to quench thirst, but also plays an important role in maintaining oral and dental health. The quality of water and its mineral compounds can have a significant impact on the health of teeth. In addition to fluoride, which is known as the most important mineral in preventing caries, other minerals such as calcium and magnesium also play a role in strengthening the structure of teeth. Calcium in drinking water helps strengthen tooth enamel and increases the resistance of teeth against acid damage. Along with calcium, magnesium is also effective in maintaining the health of tooth and gum tissues. Also, the balance of these minerals in water can affect the pH balance of the mouth and prevent the acidic environment that causes caries. Finally, paying attention to the mineral compounds of water and consuming healthy and appropriate water is a strong supplement to maintain the health of teeth along with other health care and can play an effective role in preventing caries and oral diseases. Many have this question **Do hormonal changes affect the health of teeth and gums?** Click for more information. **Substitutes for fluoride in the prevention of tooth decay** Despite the high effectiveness of fluoride, there are some concerns about its overuse and side effects such as dental fluorosis. For this reason, research is looking for natural and chemical alternatives to fluoride that can help prevent caries. Some of these alternatives include: - **Calcium and Phosphate:** These minerals help strengthen tooth enamel and are used in some dental hygiene products such as toothpaste. - **Xylitol:** A natural sweetener that reduces the growth of caries-causing bacteria and is used in sugar-free gums. - **Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles:** This substance helps to regenerate tooth enamel and is known as a new alternative in dental products. Aloe vera and herbal extracts: Some studies have shown that herbal extracts can have antibacterial properties and help oral health. ### **Notes and important points** In order to benefit from the benefits of fluoride and alternatives, intake and health conditions must be carefully controlled. Too much fluoride can lead to problems like fluorosis, which causes white or brown spots on the teeth. Also, the use of natural alternatives is recommended as a supplement to fluoride and not as a complete replacement. ### **Conclusion** Drinking healthy water, especially water containing fluoride, plays a very important role in preventing tooth decay and can help maintain oral and dental health, so the effect of drinking water on tooth decay should not be underestimated. Fluoride prevents tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and reducing the growth of harmful bacteria. In addition to fluoride, alternatives such as calcium, xylitol and plant extracts can also be effective in strengthening teeth. Paying attention to optimal consumption and correct use of these materials is an effective way to have healthy and strong teeth. If you are looking for beautiful teeth, the best methods of beauty treatment are **dental laminate** and **dental implant**.