Soda Isn’t The Only Drink That’s Bad For Your Teeth

We’ve all heard our dentists talk about how important it is to take it easy on the soda. But did you know that there’s another drink out there that can also harm your teeth? It turns out that the sugar content in sweet sodas isn’t the only thing that concerns your dentist in Spring Hill. Acid is also a problem, and it’s commonly found in many popular sports drinks.

The Problem With Acidic Drinks

Yes, too much sugar is certainly bad for teeth, which is why many people choose less sugary sports drinks over sodas. But it’s important to know that acid can also wreak havoc on a smile. In fact, acid is often the main factor in cavity development. When we drink beverages that are highly acidic, such as sports drinks or even some juices, the acid can wear down the protective layer of enamel. This loss of enamel leaves teeth exposed to bacteria. These bacteria work their way into the tooth, feed off sugars from the foods we eat, and release even more acid as a byproduct. This endless cycle can easily create decay and cavities.

Cavities Aren’t The Only Concern

Of course, nobody wants a cavity or to need treatment from their dentist in Spring Hill. But getting any area of decay treated quickly is the best way to protect your teeth from additional problems. When decay isn’t treated promptly, the decay will continue to eat away at the tooth and may require additional dental treatment such as a root canal. While nobody wants a root canal either, this treatment can save a tooth and relieve any pain that’s commonly associated with deep decay. If the decay is still not treated when it gets to this point, you may develop a painful infection known as an abscess, or worse, you may even lose the tooth.

Signs of Decay

As we mentioned, treating a cavity early is the best way to protect your tooth and ward off any additional damage. If you notice any signs of decay, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Spring Hill as soon as possible. Some signs of decay include:

• Toothaches
• Pain with hot, cold, or sweet food or drinks
• A change in tooth color
• Painful chewing
• Noticeable pits or holes

We always recommend dental appointments every six-months to prevent any problems from going too long without proper treatment. So make sure you see your dentist at least twice a year for preventive care and seek treatment quickly for any problems.

Other Drinks That Can Harm Your Teeth

Sodas and sports drinks get most of the attention, but several other everyday beverages can also wear on your enamel:

• Energy drinks: Many are both sugary and highly acidic.
• Fruit juice: Even 100% juice contains natural sugars and acids.
• Citrus and flavored waters: Lemon water and flavored sparkling waters can be mildly acidic, especially if you sip them all day.
• Sweetened coffee and tea: Added sugar and flavored syrups feed cavity-causing bacteria, and both drinks can stain teeth over time.
• Wine and cocktails: Wine is acidic and can stain, and many mixers are loaded with sugar.

It’s Not Only What You Drink, but How

Sipping a drink for hours bathes your teeth in acid and sugar again and again, giving your saliva little chance to wash it away. Enjoying a drink with a meal or finishing it in one sitting is usually easier on your teeth. A few other habits can help:

• Use a straw to help the drink bypass your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water afterward.
• Wait 30 minutes to an hour before brushing, since acid temporarily softens enamel.

Smarter Sips for Healthier Teeth

Water is the best everyday choice, and many community water supplies contain fluoride that helps strengthen enamel. Plain milk and unsweetened tea are also gentler options. As for sports drinks, most people don’t need them. Water is typically enough for workouts shorter than about an hour.

Read the Label

Look for added sugars, which hide under names like high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, and dextrose, and for acids such as citric, phosphoric, and malic acid. The shorter the list of these ingredients, the better for your smile.

Oral Care in Spring Hill, TN That Goes Beyond Your Drink Choices

Even with smart habits, enamel erosion can develop quietly. During your visit, we can check for early signs of erosion and sensitivity, suggest changes that fit your routine, and offer fluoride treatments to help protect your enamel. Contact us today to schedule your visit and get oral care in Spring Hill, TN that fits your lifestyle.

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