It is important to be aware of the type of beverages you consume and how they affect your oral health. You may think that glass of soda or cup of tea is harmless, but these beverages can actually take a toll on your oral health. Read on as Dr. Matthew Warner of Willoughby Dental explains why some of your favorite beverages are bad for your teeth.
Soda
Regular sodas are packed with sugar that promotes the growth of bacteria in the mouth, and acids that break down tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities. Diet sodas don’t have the sugar, but they are still harmful because of the acids.
The ice in a glass of soda is also problematic if you are prone to crunching on it. Chewing ice can cause tiny chips or cracks and weaken your teeth.
Energy and Sports Drinks
Energy and sports drinks have a high acid content that is very damaging to the teeth. In fact, some experts believe the acid content in sports drinks can be more damaging than that in soda.
Coffee and Tea
The tannins in coffee and tea can build up on the tooth enamel and noticeably stain the teeth. Also, many people put sugar into coffee or tea to sweeten the taste, but the sugar wreaks havoc on the teeth.
Wine
The pigments in red wine give it a beautiful hue — but can noticeably stain or discolor teeth. Additionally, red and white wines contain acid and tannins that promote tooth enamel erosion, making it easier for teeth to discolor.
Other Types of Alcohol
Saliva helps wash away food debris and bacteria from the mouth, but drinking alcohol can slow down the production of saliva and cause dry mouth. This means more bacteria and food debris remain on the teeth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Practice Moderation and Good Oral Care Habits
Make no mistake — Dr. Warner and our team are not suggesting you avoid these types of drinks altogether. Instead, we encourage you to practice moderation when consuming these beverages. Drinking a glass of water after a cup of coffee or a glass of wine is helpful. And, we recommend you stay on top of your oral health by brushing twice a day, flossing daily and seeing Dr. Warner every six months to a year.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Warner, please call or email us today.
