The Absolute Worst Drinks For Teeth

We all know the perils of eating sugary foods and how they can affect the health of our teeth. What we may not realize is that there are certain beverages that will do just the same. Sugary drinks can do much harm to dental health, and in a way that will surprise most. While the sugar in certain beverages can lead to tooth decay, it is the acids present in many drinks that really promote poor dental health. Here are the beverages that are the worst when it comes to promoting tooth decay.

Soft Drinks, Soda, Pop

Depending upon where you are from, it may be pop or it might be soda, but the bottom line is that these popular drinks are leading to more tooth decay. It is the acids in soft drinks that combine with sugar and bacteria to produce the tooth decay that breaks down tooth enamel. When drinking a soft drink, tooth enamel softens. After consuming the drink, it takes roughly 30 minutes for tooth enamel to return to its normal state. Today’s large serving sizes mean we could spend 30 minutes having a soft drink and that is just one. Add multiple soft drinks together along with the time needed for tooth enamel to recover and we can see where teeth are primed to break down. Brushing and flossing after eating and drinking can help to reduce the onset of tooth decay.

Fruit Juices, Especially Orange Juice

Like soft drinks, orange juice is highly acidic and will combine with bacteria and sugars in the mouth to produce tooth decay. While many may think that orange juice is “healthier” than a soft drink (and it may be), it still can do serious damage to someone’s teeth. Other fruit juices are still sugary and many are acidic. Such juices are not great for dental health.

Watch Your Coffee Intake

It is the preferred beverage of many each and every morning, but coffee can lead to problems with teeth. If coffee drinkers do not brush often and have regular cleanings, the dark brown color of coffee can result in staining of the teeth and make them appear yellow. Tea, especially darker varieties, will have the same effect.

Alcohol

Whether in the form of beer, wine, or liquor, alcohol is high in sugar. The sugars can, of course, soften tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. Some alcoholic drinks, red wine in particular, can leave stains on teeth.