Hot springs and oral health might not seem related at first, but if you love soaking in natural hot springs, you may be wondering how the mineral-rich water impacts your teeth. Bend, Oregon, is known for its outdoor adventures, stunning landscapes, and relaxing hot springs just a short drive away. Whether you’re unwinding at Paulina Lake Hot Springs or taking in the natural beauty of Bigelow Hot Springs, there’s nothing quite like soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters.
But while you’re soaking your muscles and letting the geothermal magic work on your skin, have you ever wondered—does soaking in a hot spring impact your oral health?
Surprisingly, the connection between hot springs and dental health is worth exploring! Let’s dive into how the minerals, water quality, and even the steam from these natural wonders might play a role in your smile’s well-being.
1. Minerals & Your Teeth: Is Natural Spring Water Beneficial?
Many of Bend’s nearby hot springs are rich in minerals like calcium, silica, magnesium, and sulfur. These elements are known for benefiting skin and joints, but do they help teeth?
- Calcium & Magnesium – These minerals are great for strengthening tooth enamel, much like they do for bones. However, since you’re not drinking hot spring water, your teeth don’t directly absorb these benefits.
- Silica – While silica can make water feel smooth and is thought to promote healthy skin, too much exposure might contribute to staining on teeth, especially if it builds up over time.
- Sulfur – Ever noticed the distinct smell of hot springs? That’s sulfur, which, in large amounts, can contribute to bad breath. While soaking won’t cause this, drinking sulfur-heavy water might leave an unpleasant aftertaste.
Takeaway: While soaking in mineral-rich hot springs won’t necessarily strengthen your teeth, some of these minerals are beneficial for bone and enamel health when included in your diet.
2. Hot Water & Your Gums: Good or Bad?
Steam and warm temperatures can be great for your skin and sinuses, but what about your gums?
- Increased Blood Flow – Just like heat relaxes sore muscles, it also increases circulation. This can be great for gum health, as good blood flow keeps your gums strong and resilient.
- Dehydration Risk – Hot springs can cause you to sweat and lose fluids, which might lead to dry mouth. A lack of saliva can contribute to plaque buildup and bad breath, so be sure to stay hydrated before and after your soak.
Tip: Bring fluoride-infused or mineral-rich water with you to sip while soaking. This keeps your gums hydrated and your teeth protected from dryness.
3. Staining & Hot Springs: Could Soaking Affect Tooth Color?
Some hot springs contain natural tannins from surrounding plant life, which can give the water a brownish tint. While this is completely natural and safe, exposure to tannins over time is known to stain teeth—just like coffee, tea, and red wine.
Additionally, if you’re a fan of soaking with a glass of wine or a cup of Bend’s famous coffee, you might be exposing your teeth to staining agents while relaxing in the hot water.
Preventing Stains While Soaking:
- Rinse your mouth with fresh water after soaking
- Brush with a whitening toothpaste if you visit hot springs frequently
- Schedule professional cleanings to remove minor staining
4. Oral Health Tips for Hot Spring Lovers in Bend
If visiting hot springs is part of your Bend lifestyle, here’s how you can protect your teeth while enjoying the soak:
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to combat dry mouth.
- Limit Dark Beverages While Soaking – Reduce exposure to tannins and staining drinks.
- Rinse & Brush – Rinse your mouth after visiting hot springs, especially if the water has a strong mineral presence.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Dr. Kelley Mingus can help prevent staining and keep your enamel strong so you can keep enjoying your favorite outdoor escapes!
A Healthy Smile, No Matter Where You Soak
Bend’s hot springs are an amazing way to relax and recharge, and while they might not have a direct impact on your teeth, small factors like mineral content, dehydration, and staining risks are worth considering.
Want to keep your smile bright while embracing Bend’s outdoor lifestyle? Schedule a visit with Dr. Kelley Mingus to make sure your teeth stay strong, healthy, and stain-free—whether you’re hiking, soaking, or sipping your way through Central Oregon.
Book your next dental visit today!