How do drinks affect dental health?

Hello, readers of our blog!

This is a review article in our blog. We do not advocate the use or refusal to use any beverages. Please consult your dentist for individualised dental care and oral hygiene recommendations.

Have you ever noticed that after drinking a particular drink, the color of your teeth can change, pigmentation appears, and their sensitivity increases? We won’t reveal a secret if we say that all drinks, without exception, affect oral health. Today we have compiled a list of drinks for you in two categories: “BAD CHOICE” (what we strongly advise against) and “BETTER CHOICE” (drinks that you can add to your diet / but do not overdo it)

Bad choice
Cola

Fact: cola is bad for your teeth. Its high sugar content and carbonation are in themselves a green light for tooth decay. It has the highest acidity of all sodas, which leads to softening of tooth enamel. Cola contains phosphoric acid, which is widely used in the production of industrial cleaners, it affects the entire tooth, which causes high temperature sensitivity, pain, and darkening of the enamel.

Coffee.

If you are a coffee drinker, the following information will be a little disappointing. Regular consumption of coffee wears down the enamel, which leads to sensitivity problems + stains. However, coffee is not too acidic, so a cup of sugar-free coffee from time to time is an acceptable option.

Sweet tea

Similarly to coffee, it “colors” the surface of your teeth, if you drink it sweetened in the traditional way (with white sugar), your teeth are in trouble. If you can’t resist the urge to have a cup of black/brown, try making tea with sweetener and limit the total amount you drink (throughout the day).

Energy drinks

While these drinks can energize you, they are harmful to your oral health. Energy drinks can damage your enamel due to the high level of acidity. Hyperactivity can cause uncontrolled teeth grinding (bruxism), which leads to damage and eventual loss. This is especially true for modern teenagers who consume energy drinks on a massive scale.

The best choice

In this category, we have included beverages that are a better alternative to the above-mentioned liquids.

Carbonated water

There is a lot of debate about whether soda is bad for your teeth or not. The good news is that most types of flavorless soda are perfectly fine to consume. However, keep in mind that additives such as fruit flavors can increase the acidity of the water, even if it has no juice or sugar, so don’t overdo it.

Coconut water

If you’re tired of regular water (which is, of course, the healthiest option!), try coconut water with a refreshing effect, rich in antioxidants. It’s a great alternative to sports drinks, thanks to electrolytes like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Just make sure you buy a brand that is low in sugar.

Milk.

Next to water, milk is the healthiest drink for your teeth. It protects tooth enamel, contains vitamins and calcium, and can actually reduce tooth decay. Don’t forget about plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy) as a healthier alternative to its animal counterpart. You can even indulge in a little chocolate milk from time to time (just be careful with the amount of sugar).

Light beer

Don’t be discouraged, beer lovers, there is always hope. If you suddenly want to drink a glass of frothy beer, just take a light one. It is less acidic due to its higher water content and does not stain your teeth as much as dark beer.

Gin and soda

Excessive alcohol consumption is bad for your body, but if you’re looking for a more acceptable option for your dental health, consider gin. This is the lowest acidity alcohol, plus it does not contain sugar. Choose sparkling water instead of tonic and add lime juice.

Red wine

When it comes to wine, red is better for dental health.

White wine is more acidic than red wine and therefore more effective in destroying your enamel / it becomes more susceptible to discoloration and stains /. Moreover, red wine contains polyphenols, which are substances that effectively fight pathogenic bacteria in the mouth and prevent gum and tooth disease.

The best way to protect your teeth is to avoid sweet and acidic drinks. You can also:

/ use a straw to limit the contact of the drink with your teeth;

/ brush your teeth before drinking dark beverages to prevent plaque from staining them

/ drink water after any other drink to rinse your mouth.

With this list of good and bad habits, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision about the drinks that will contribute to your healthy smile!