Adult
We all know that your diet directly impacts your health, but have you ever thought about how it affects your teeth and gums? Many common beverages can cause plaque buildup and negatively impact oral health. Here are the five worst drinks for your teeth.
Coffee & Tea
Non-herbal coffee and tea are acidic and can weaken enamel over time, leading to sensitivity problems. If you’re an avid coffee drinker, consider rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash after a cup to remove leftover acidity. You should not brush your teeth right after drinking coffee or tea, as this can further weaken the enamel.
Carbonated Drinks
The sugar in carbonated drinks combined with bacteria in the mouth causes an acidic buildup that attacks the teeth. The worst culprit is diet soda, which contains high levels of acid that can cause severe damage over time. With every sip of soda, bacteria form and weaken the enamel. Carbonated drinks also have artificial dyes in them that can stain teeth.
Sports Drinks
While these drinks might give you a boost, they can negatively impact the teeth and gums. Energy drinks contain high levels of acid that can seriously harm your enamel over time. Excessive energy can also result in teeth grinding, which can cause tooth loss and breaking.
Wine
Both red and white wines are highly acidic. This acid can deteriorate your enamel and cause yellow staining. Without the protective layer of enamel, teeth are also at risk of extreme plaque buildup and decay. Wine also dries out the mouth and leaves it vulnerable to harmful bacteria.
Ice
While many enjoy chewing ice, this habit can damage your teeth and put them through unnecessary wear and tear. Repeated impact on such a hard, cold surface causes severe damage to the enamel and often results in cracks, chips, and over sensitivity.
Schedule Your Yearly Dental Exam
Most beverages cause wear and tear on your teeth, but the number one rule is to avoid added sugar to help prevent staining and cavities. It’s also important to schedule an annual appointment with a Plantation dentist, Tamarac dentist, or Davie dentist to detect any issues and maintain healthy teeth.
September 28, 2022