Is Your Drink Destroying Your Teeth?
It is widely known that coffee, red wine and dark tea can stain your smile, and that high-sugared fruit juices can leave your teeth vulnerable to cavities. While this is certainly true, there is another element of your beverage that can drastically impact your teeth. How often do you consider the acidity of your drink?
Recognizing the Acidity of Your Beverage
If your favorite drink has a pH of below 5.5, your teeth are getting a harmful acid bath every time you gulp. At this level, the acids have the ability to dissolve the strong enamel of your teeth (the outer protective layer). This can cause the nerve-containing tooth structures to be more exposed. Discoloration, decay and sensitivity can result.
For those that rely on sodas, sports drinks and energy drinks to quench their thirst, you’re introducing a deadly recipe to your smile. Not only are these drinks very high in sugar, they are also very acidic. In fact, even after your last sip, the acids can continue to attack your teeth. Research your go-to beverage to find out just how acidic it is. Even coffee is considered highly acidic!
Do you have to avoid your acidic drink altogether if you want to protect your teeth? Not necessarily. If you decide to indulge in an occasional soda or sports drink, just make sure you rinse with water immediately afterwards. You can also chew a piece of sugarless gum to help neutralize the pH of your mouth after your drink.
If you are concerned that your drink has already caused damage to your smile, call Dr. Wayne Suway in Marietta. We offer a full menu of treatments to reverse the damage, whether it is whitening your teeth, repairing a cavity or reducing tooth sensitivity. Remember that the safest and most “smile-friendly” way to hydrate your body is with plain water!
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