Certain popular beverages could be causing your teeth more harm than good.
The foods and drinks that you choose to consume on a regular basis can all have a considerable effect on the condition of your teeth. Drinks that are particularly acidic tend to wear away at the enamel of the teeth, making them more susceptible to damage and issues like tooth decay. Similarly, sugary drinks can also cause some serious harm. Read on to find out which of your favourite beverages could be harming your smile, and which ones have some health benefits…
1. Alcohol
Alcohol tends to dry out the mouth and can contribute to issues like tooth decay and bad breath. Drinks like red wine are particularly acidic and can erode the enamel, making it vulnerable to stains and discolouration.
2. Coffee and tea
Many of us like to start the day with a cup of coffee, but this popular drink can, however, stain the surface of our teeth. This is because it contains tannins, which cause colour compounds to attach to the teeth. When these compounds stick to the teeth, they leave stains behind — these stains generally appear yellow and can have a detrimental effect on the overall appearance of one’s smile.
Most teas are not particularly acidic, while some types, such as green tea, may actually benefit gum health. If, however, you drink ice tea, you should be aware of the potential sugar content, which is often very high.
3. Milk
When it comes to choosing a drink that will benefit your teeth, milk is a good choice. The beverage is rich in calcium and protein, which promotes healthy teeth and bones, plus it is not acidic. Furthermore, milk contains a number of minerals and proteins that can prevent cavity-forming bacteria from attaching to the teeth and multiplying in the mouth.
4. Carbonated drinks
Although they are a popular choice, soft drinks offer no nutritional value and can do some serious damage to your teeth. Most of them are packed with sugar, and even sugar-free versions tend to be very acidic. If you consume soft drinks regularly, you run the risk of developing a number of oral health issues —these include dental erosion and tooth decay, as well as stains and discolouration.
5. Water
When it comes to taking care of your health, one of the best things you can do is drink plenty of water every day. This will ensure that you stay hydrated and that all of your body’s essential processes function as they should. And, when it comes to your oral health specifically, water can help to keep your mouth moist and clean. It’s a good idea to drink some water after every meal or snack as this helps to rinse away leftover food particles and other debris that may be stuck between your teeth and other areas of the mouth.
It is worth noting that although water is the healthiest beverage option available, sparkling water is actually very acidic and can wear away at your enamel if you drink it too often.
How can we help?
At Beenleigh Marketplace Dental, we love to keep our patients informed when it comes to maintaining optimal oral health. If you have a question that you would like addressed or a dental issue that you need to be resolved, we encourage you to come in and see us so that we can help.
We offer the full scope of dental treatments, from general and cosmetic to restorative procedures. If you would like to find out more about the range of services that we provide at Beenleigh Marketplace Dental, please have a look here. If you would like to arrange a consultation with us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here or give us a call at (07) 3801 8799. Our team is committed to providing top-quality care and will guide you through your treatment of choice to ensure that you enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile.