Whether you look forward to your morning cup of coffee or a glass of wine at the end of a hard week, everybody enjoys treating themselves. However, it’s important to know which beverages you should be limiting in order to keep your oral health in check. Continue reading to learn which drinks your dentist in Norman encourages you to only consume in moderation.
Soda
This may be an obvious one, but it is still one of the most common types of beverages in the United States. The problem with it is that it has high levels of acid, sugar, and contains carbonation. Acidic and sugary beverages cause your enamel to erode over time and leave your teeth vulnerable to decay. Carbonated drinks can dry out your mouth and prevent harmful acids from being neutralized and washed away. This is definitely a beverage to save for occasions.
Juice
Even 100% juices are packed with sugar. Just like soda, they contain high levels of acid and sugar that can cause all sorts of issues for your smile including tooth decay, sensitivity, and a weakened enamel. Fruit juices are also typically highly concentrated which exposes your teeth to even more acid than regular fruit! If you want a glass of juice, try diluting it with water.
Sports Drinks
They are often advertised as a great way for athletes to stay hydrated while also replenishing electrolytes. The problem is that it is loaded with enamel weakening acid and sugar. In fact, this type of beverage is even worse than drinking soda! Dentists suggest that you stick to tooth healthy alternatives like water or coconut water.
Coffee
This is part of the daily routine of a large percentage of Americans. Coffee actually has many benefits, but unfortunately, none of them have to do with your smile. It stains your teeth, causes dry mouth, and erodes your enamel over time. Dentists recommend that you dilute your morning coffee with milk, refrain from adding sugar, and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Wine
Consuming alcoholic beverages is linked to dry mouth. When you don’t have as much saliva, you are less likely to protect your enamel from harmful acids that are in wine. In addition to enamel erosion, drinking wine too frequently can cause staining over time.
Tea
Most of the time, tea is safe for your oral health. The problem is when tea is loaded with all sorts of sugars and other sweeteners. This increases your risk of cavities and decay. Some popular iced tea brands contain more sugar than soda!
When it comes to treating yourself with these beverages, moderation is key! Consuming them too often without any precautions can lead to all sorts of dental issues. Save these ones for occasions.
About the Author
Bobby J. Carmen is skilled in many aspects of dentistry including the cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry fields. He earned his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and has continued to expand his knowledge through continuing education. He is a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Association, and the Cleveland County Dental Society. For more advice on how to best take care of your smile or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (405) 364-2200.