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The best way you can avoid oral health issues is by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist. Keeping up with them can help you prevent a dental problem, but there is still a chance you develop one. What you eat and drink can increase your risk. In fact, many popular beverages you might reach for may be the ones causing trouble! Here’s what you should know and safer alternatives to get instead.
What Popular Drinks Can Spell Trouble for My Teeth?
While some of these drinks can be tasty or refreshing, overindulging in them can lead to dental problems if you aren’t careful. These are some to be wary of:
- Soda is full of sugar that feeds bacteria in your mouth. They produce an acid that can dissolve your enamel, leading to decay. Diet versions aren’t much safer as they are acidic, like the regular ones, which wear down the top layer even faster.
- Energy and sports drinks have the same issue as the one above. The former can make you a bit hyperactive and lead to teeth grinding, which can wear down your smile much faster.
- Coffee or tea might be a great way to start the morning, but they can lead to stains. Not only that, but sweet add-ins can also cause cavities if you aren’t careful.
- Alcoholic drinks are sugary and acidic like the rest, so they can harm your enamel. However, they also cause dry mouth, which can make it harder to wash away bacteria as your saliva production is impacted.
What Are Some Tooth-Friendly Alternatives I Should Reach For?
Although the best way to avoid any oral health issues from these drinks is to completely avoid them, you don’t have to quit them entirely. You can change your habits to make sure they don’t cause problems. Keep them in moderation and rinse with water after enjoying them. You can also reach for safer alternatives more often, such as:
- Water is the best thing you can have as it keeps your mouth moist, washes away bacteria and debris, and neutralizes acids. All while not causing stains either.
- Milk has calcium and phosphorus, making it a great way to strengthen your smile against plaque.
- Diluted juice is a tasty option, but mixing it with water helps dial back the natural sugars and acids.
- Caffeine-free herbal teas don’t stir up trouble while also being less likely to discolor your grin.
These alternatives won’t eliminate the need for your oral hygiene or visit with the dentist, but they can help you take better care of your smile. That way, you keep it protected from any oral health issues.
About the Author
Dr. Francisca Sanchez earned her dental degree from the Columbia School of Dental Medicine. She has over 20 years of experience, which she uses to give the New York Community the high-quality care they deserve. By having routine checkups and cleanings, Dr. Sanchez can help you be proactive about any problems and treat them in their early stages. If you want to make sure your teeth are in great shape, schedule an appointment or call her office at (646) 669-7407.