Beverages That Can Harm Your Teeth

With the summer season being near, you might be craving cold beverages, but do you know they can negatively affect your oral health? Here are lists of some of the beverages we would prefer you consume only a little amount as too much of it can affect your teeth.

Sports Drinks

Some sports drinks can actually help protect your teeth. However, most sports drinks have high levels of acid and sugar, and too much of these substances can erode the enamel on your teeth. Enamel erosion can lead to tooth sensitivity and discoloration. If your dental team notices that your teeth are showing the effects of sports drinks, they may suggest cutting back on how often you drink them.

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are popular among teens and young adults, but they aren’t good for your pearly whites. Carbonated beverages can lead to cavities and tooth decay because they don’t rinse off easily, leaving behind sugar that feeds bacteria.

Energy drinks often contain high amounts of sugar, which can lead to cavities. Many people also sip energy drinks throughout the day, which increases the amount of time that acid is in contact with your teeth. Acid can weaken tooth enamel and lead to cavities.

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages can dry out your mouth, which can increase your risk for tooth decay. Most alcoholic beverages contain sugar, which bacteria in your mouth can use as fuel to produce acids and plaque. In addition, alcohol can reduce your saliva flow, which can also increase your risk for tooth decay.

Tea

Tea can be a great way to unwind at the end of the day. However, tea can contain a lot of added sugar, which can increase your risk of cavities. If you can’t go without your tea, try to drink it with your meal rather than after it.

You should also take care that you aren’t steeping your tea for too long. The longer tea steeps, the more time it can damage your teeth.

Coffee

Drinking coffee in moderation is perfectly fine. Coffee is rich in antioxidants and can be beneficial for oral health. However, drinking too much coffee can stain your teeth, weaken them, and has been linked to other oral health problems like gum disease and dry mouth.

Sodas

Soda, or carbonated beverages, is a common acidic drink that many people consume. Unfortunately, these drinks are terrible for your teeth and can cause tooth decay and enamel erosion. 

Water

Water is great for your body. It hydrates you, helps your body digest food, and can even boost hydration if you find yourself dehydrated. But before you grab another glass of water, remember that water doesn’t wash away food particles. If you don’t brush or floss your teeth, food particles will sit on your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay.

So if you’re thirsty, try to drink more water – but also make sure you brush and floss.

If you wish to learn more about tips that can help you maintain your oral and overall health, visit Dental Health PC at 869 NW 23rd Street, Corvallis, OR 97330. Call us at (541) 757 1829 to book an appointment. We will be happy to help you further.