Energy and sports drinks do not only boost strength and stamina. They also boost your risk for tooth decay. Do not believe for a minute that they are healthier than soda for oral health. Research shows that because they erode tooth enamel, these drinks make teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Therefore, energy drinks and oral health in DuPont do not go together.
What Does the Research Show?
A study conducted atthe Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine tested 13 sports drinks and nine energy drinks for acidity. Both types of drinks caused damage, but energy drinks were twice as bad. Unfortunately, damaged tooth enamel cannot be fixed.
The Ingredient List
Naturally, water is at the top of the ingredient list for a sport or energy drink. But keep reading and you will see sugar and citric acid close behind water. Those two ingredients are where the danger lies. Most people know about the connection between sugar and cavities. Citric acid, which is a preservative used to enhance flavor and extend shelf life, also erodes tooth enamel to a dangerous degree.
Tooth Sensitivity and Tooth Decay
A sport or energy drink may be satisfying, but both can lead to both tooth sensitivity as well as tooth decay. Citric acid begins to damage enamel as soon as it hits your teeth. As more of these drinks are consumed, more damage occurs until eventually the enamel thins to the point that your teeth become very sensitive to foods and beverages that are hot, cold, sweet and acidic.
Damaged enamel may lead to erosion, which is how cavities get started. Enamel is the hardest material in the human body, but it simply cannot stand up to repeated exposure to the sugar and citric acid in sports drinks.
How Can You Protect Your Teeth?
If you ask a dentist in DuPont what is best to drink when you are thirsty, the answer will always be water. Actually, it is not a bad idea to drink tap water every now and then as well because it contains fluoride, a valuable mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps reduce the threat of cavities.
If you really need an energy drink for that extra boost, rinse with water afterwards in order to wash away acids that may still be on your teeth. Then, wait about an hour before you brush your teeth. If rinsing is not possible, then chew a piece of sugar-free gum.
Make sure your teeth remain free of tooth decay and sensitivity. Schedule a dental checkup today.
Meet the Practice
At Dupont Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing all of the services our patients need to have a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile. If you have questions about how to keep your teeth healthy or if you need to schedule a checkup or any other kind of treatment, make an appointment today.