How Does Flavored Water Affect Your Oral Health?

Do you occasionally like to sip on flavored water? You might like it because it is refreshing, and you may reason that it is healthier than sugar-loaded sodas and sports beverages. However, have you thought about how it might be affecting your oral health? This blog post explains how flavored water may harm your teeth. It also gives some tips on what you can do to minimize the damage.

Flavored Water and Enamel Erosion

Although flavored water is usually sugar-free, it contains something else that can harm tooth enamel: acid. Most flavored water beverages contain acidic compounds, which are well-known for their potential to soften and erode tooth enamel. Overconsumption of flavored water might contribute to decay, dental stains, and increased sensitivity.

The good news is that sparkling water, without any flavors added, is relatively safe for teeth even though it is slightly more acidic than plain water.

Tips for Safely Enjoying Flavored Water

Even though flavored water is not great for your dental health, that does not mean you have to avoid it altogether. Here are a few tips on how you can safely enjoy it:

• Limit your consumption. Flavored water should not be your primary source of hydration. Most of what you drink should be plain water.
• Drink through a straw. Drinking through a straw can minimize the water’s contact with your teeth.
• Do not brush for 30 – 60 minutes after finishing your water. Your teeth can remain weakened for up to 60 minutes after you drink an acidic beverage, which means a toothbrush might cause damage if you brush too soon.
• Drink the water quickly. Instead of slowly sipping on flavored water throughout the day, finish it relatively quickly. This shortens the amount of time that your teeth are exposed to acid.
• Use fluoridated oral hygiene products. Fluoride is a mineral that can fortify tooth enamel and reduce the risk of decay.
• Consume enough calcium. Calcium is great for strengthening teeth and keeping them healthy.

Flavored water poses a degree of risk to your smile. However, as long as you take appropriate precautions, you should be able to enjoy it without worry.

Meet the Practice

Tzagournis Dental Group is home to three talented and experienced dentists: Drs. George Tzagournis, Daniel Bell, and Steve Walton. They proudly put their extensive skills to work in order to help patients in our community enjoy the benefits of sound oral health. If you have questions about how you can adopt smile-friendly habits, our team would be happy to speak with you. Contact our Westerville office at 614-882-4032.