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From Deschutes River Water to Your Toothbrush: How Local Water Affects Your Teeth

Bend, Oregon, is home to breathtaking landscapes, an active outdoor community, and, of course, the Deschutes River, a lifeline for local recreation, wildlife, and even your drinking water. But have you ever stopped to think about how Bend’s water affects your dental health? The water you drink, cook with, and brush your teeth with plays a significant role in keeping your smile strong and healthy.

The Power of Local Water in Oral Health

Water is more than just hydration — it’s an essential part of protecting and maintaining your teeth. But what’s in Bend’s water, and how does it affect your dental health?

1. Natural Minerals: The Good & The Bad

The Deschutes River provides high-quality water that is treated for safety before it reaches your tap. While Bend’s water is clean and refreshing, it is also naturally soft, like much of the water supply in Oregon, meaning it contains lower levels of calcium and magnesium. These minerals help strengthen tooth enamel, so if you primarily drink Bend’s tap water, you may need to get extra minerals from your diet or dental care routine.

2. Fluoride: What You Need to Know

Unlike many cities, Bend does not add fluoride to its water supply. Fluoride is known for its ability to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities, which is why many dentists — including Dr. Kelley Mingus — recommend fluoride treatments or fluoride toothpaste to help protect your teeth. If you’re not getting fluoride from your water, it’s important to ask your dentist about fluoride options to keep your smile cavity-free.

3. Temperature & Tooth Sensitivity: How Bend’s Water Affects Your Smile

Bend’s crisp, cool water is refreshing — especially after a long day of hiking or skiing — but for some, it can highlight tooth sensitivity. Drinking cold water straight from the tap or taking a sip from the Deschutes can cause discomfort, particularly if you have weakened enamel or exposed roots. This reaction occurs when temperature changes trigger nerves in the teeth, often due to gum recession or enamel wear. If you experience sharp pain when drinking cold water, it might be time to talk to Dr. Mingus about strengthening your enamel with fluoride treatments or desensitizing solutions.

4. Water Quality & Stain Prevention

Bend’s water is free from heavy metals or excessive chlorine, meaning it’s generally gentle on your teeth. However, if you have well water or drink from untreated sources, higher iron content could stain your teeth over time. Using a water filter or getting regular dental cleanings with Dr. Mingus can help prevent staining.

How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy in Bend

Since Bend’s water is soft and lacks fluoride, taking extra steps to protect your smile is essential. Here’s what Dr. Mingus recommends:

  • Use Fluoride Toothpaste. Since Bend’s water isn’t fluoridated, make sure you brush with a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and fight cavities.
  • Stay Hydrated. Whether you’re kayaking on the Deschutes or hitting the slopes, drink plenty of water to keep saliva production high and prevent dry mouth.
  • Eat a Tooth-Friendly Diet. Get minerals like calcium and magnesium from foods like dairy, leafy greens, and nuts to support strong teeth.
  • Schedule Regular Dental Checkups. A professional cleaning with Dr. Mingus can help remove stains, check for decay, and keep your teeth in top shape.

Your Dentist & Your Drinking Water: The Perfect Pair

Water plays an important role in your dental health, and understanding how Bend’s water affects your smile can help you take better care of your teeth.

Want to keep your smile strong and healthy? Schedule a visit with Dr. Mingus to make sure your teeth are getting everything they need — no matter where you’re getting your water!

Call today to book your appointment!