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Is Flavored Water Bad for My Smile?

July 6, 2021

Filed under: Uncategorized — markelawtondds @ 3:48 am

Flavored water in glass bottle with lemonsDid you know 50% to 70% of your body is water? Although everyone’s water intake needs differ, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends men having 15.5 cups per day while women should have 11.5 cups. Besides drinking water, your body also gets it from other beverages and foods. It can be difficult to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, which is why many people add flavors to it. While it can provide you with a touch of sweetness, your smile won’t appreciate flavored water. Despite the claimed health benefits, many of these products can damage your enamel. Here’s what you need to know to stay hydrated without harming your smile.

Effects of Flavored Water on Tooth Enamel

There hasn’t been extensive research regarding the effects of flavored water and dental health; however, professionals know consuming sugary and acidic drinks can lead to tooth decay. Flavored waters not only contain sugar, but they are also acidic, which means they can erode your enamel. As a result, it’s safe to assume drinking them often can have erosive effects. As an alternative to flavored products, many people choose sparkling varieties. Laboratory testing has found them to be less corrosive than those with flavors added.

What are My Options?

Although flavored water can damage your teeth, they are far less acidic than soda. In fact, the risk of erosion is significantly higher with soda, making sparkling and flavor-infused water the safer options. Your dentist still recommends drinking them in moderation and making a few simple changes to enjoy a sweet drink without harming your teeth, such as:

  • Choose Fresh Fruit: If you need a splash of flavor added to your water, sweeten it using cut-up fruit, like strawberries or orange slices.
  • Don’t Sip Your Drink: Sipping your drink throughout the day prolongs your smile’s exposure to sugars and acids. It is better to have it all at once, and then brush your teeth after you’ve finished.
  • Don’t Hold It in Your Mouth: If you have a habit of holding a drink in your mouth before swallowing it, you’ll want to stop to avoid bathing your teeth in the corrosive fluid.
  • Drink Plain Water: You shouldn’t only consume flavored water. Instead, be sure to stay hydrated using plain water as well.
  • Drink Through a Straw: Although there isn’t any scientific evidence confirming it is safer, many dentists recommend drinking cavity-causing beverages through a straw.

The healthiest beverage for your mouth and body will always be plain water. Not only is it sugar-free, but it also contains fluoride to promote strong, healthy teeth.

About Dr. Mark E. Lawton

Dr. Lawton earned his dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center and completed an exchange program in Japan. He is committed to providing advanced dental care using the latest innovations in dentistry to create healthy smiles. If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office today for an appointment.

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