One of the biggest factors for our oral health? The food and drink we consume. Not only can they cause plaque build-up, but some can lead to teeth stain! While we don’t want you to give up these beloved drinks forever, here are a few to consider limiting to keep your mouth healthy.
What Drinks Affect Your Teeth the Most?
Juice – Most juices contain quite a bit of sugar, and sugar can cause a build-up of plaque. Plus, citrus juices are highly acidic. That acidity can eventually cause damage to tooth enamel, which is there to protect your teeth.
Coffee – Lots of people love a cuppa joe in the morning. But coffee is notorious for causing teeth stain by exposing dentin that’s right underneath your tooth enamel. Plus, the common addition of sugar can increase risk of cavities.
Tea – Even though it’s one of the most popular drinks in the world, tea contains tannins, which can also cause teeth stain. If you’re going to drink tea, we recommend limiting the sugar, lemon, or honey.
Alcohol – Alcohol reduces the production of saliva, which provides a protection for teeth. Red wines, specifically, have a habit of leaving teeth stains behind. Additionally, alcohol’s high sugar content can lead to periodontal disease (a topic we recently wrote about!).
Soda – Soda is incredibly high in sugar, and most are also high in acidity. This combination is a double whammy for your teeth. Sadly, diet soda’s high levels of phosphoric and citric acid don’t make it much better.
Sparkling Water – This one might surprise you! Sparkling water is lower in pH, which puts it on the acidic side. Acidity can wear down enamel and make teeth more susceptible to damage.
How to Limit Effects Against Drinks That Affect Your Teeth the Most
We have a few recommendations:
- Use a reusable straw! That protects your teeth from the liquid.
- Make sure to drink plenty of (non-sparkling) water to rinse out any leftover acid.
- Stick to our oral hygiene routine.
- Eat raw vegetables. Did you know chewing those veggies can naturally clean your teeth? Read about other foods we recommend for a healthy mouth!
Remember, Moderation is Key!
By enjoying these drinks in moderation, you’ll be helping your teeth and gums stay healthy.
Clean Teeth, Strong Body.
When it comes to taking good care of your teeth, Dakota Dental is here to help you stay on track. From regular cleanings to dental advice, we’re here because we want your teeth and gums to be healthy for the future! Think you’re ready for your tooth tune-up? Give us a call or contact us to set up a visit.