14 Jul Which Acidic Drinks Are Bad for Your Teeth and Why It’s Important to Limit Consumption?

Which Acidic Drinks Are Bad for Your Teeth and Why It’s Important to Limit Consumption?

Did you know bottled water can erode the enamel on your teeth? It is actually acidic enough (due to a lower pH value and a lack of fluoride) to harm your teeth and eventually cause hypersensitivity. Even ice-cold water, or ice for that matter, are things that can damage your teeth in unexpected ways. If not water and ice, what really should you trust? Before we tell you the drinks that are OK for your teeth, here’s some info on the drinks you should avoid for your teeth’s sake!

How Acidic Drinks Weaken Your Teeth?

Any drink with a low pH can be a problem for your teeth. Low pH makes it acidic, which eats away your tooth enamel, exposing the dentin underneath. Why is it bad? Dentin is actually a hero! It’s softer than enamel but supports the tooth structure to a great extent. But exposing dentin means hypersensitivity, pain, and tooth decay.

Which Acidic Drinks Are Bad For Your Teeth?

Usually, milk, fresh fruit juices, vegetable juices, tap water, and bottled water with added minerals are all good for your teeth. But here are five drinks that must be avoided in order to protect your teeth and overall health:

Alcohol

Moderate alcohol consumption is key to good overall health, not just dental health. Since alcohol is acidic, it can be detrimental to your entire body. It can especially strip away your tooth enamel and cause serious dental issues in the long run.

Caffeine

Coffee is acidic, and tea is minimally acidic. Moderate consumption of both is OK, but excessive quantities of either can cause enamel erosion. These can also stain your teeth. If you really can’t live without your caffeine, we recommend that you have unsweetened, lighter, less acidic versions.

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks have as much sugar (or more) as soda, and their low pH can erode the dentin and enamel of your teeth even faster, causing increased sensitivity and loss of the tooth bulk. Energy drinks can also contain synthetic colors that may require further restoration. If you’re going to drink Energy drinks, make sure to rinse your mouth after you’re done!

Citrus Drinks

Citrus fruits are loaded with nutrients that keep your immune system healthy. The problem is the low pH level in these fruits. The acidic nature of citrus drinks can remove the invisible thin layer that coats your teeth. The idea isn’t to stop having citrus fruits and juices but avoid overindulgence and reduce the risks of dental problems.

Carbonated Beverages

What’s not to love about carbonated drinks? They’re sweet and they’re tangy. But they also have empty calories and caustic ingredients, giving your teeth a real beating. It’s also true for diet options like diet soda. These are are acidic and can erode your tooth enamel if drank in excess. Once the tooth enamel weakens, your tooth structure will be susceptible to even more damage.

The Bottom Line

Moderation is key. If you indulge in acidic drinks, you’d want to brush your teeth or at least rinse your mouth to remove the damaging acid. If you’re experiencing any problems with tooth sensitivity  or have questions about having hot, cold, sugary, or acidic drinks in general, call 630-416-0780 to schedule an appointment or book an appointment online at iroquoisdental.com at Iroquois Dental Center in Naperville, IL.