As people all over the world are becoming more educated about the adverse effects of what they eat and drink on their overall health, including their teeth, many are switching to healthier alternatives. Everyone now knows the dangers of carbonated drinks packed with sugar and that pure, unadulterated water is the best way to stay hydrated and avoid tooth erosion. Many have adopted sparkling water as a healthy alternative to boring, plain water as it has the same fizz of a soft drink without the dangerous amounts of sugar. In Australia, the consumption of sparkling water rose by 15% between 2009 and 2013, but is sparkling water bad for your teeth?
Also read: Why is Fruit Juice Bad for Teeth?
What is Sparkling Water?
Sparkling water is produced by dissolving pressurised carbon dioxide gas into pure water which creates carbonic acid. Any acid has the potential to harm your teeth by attaching to the enamel that forms a protective layer around the teeth. The question is, is the level of acidity in plain sparkling water high enough to harm the enamel of your teeth?
Is Sparkling Water Affecting My Teeth?
Acid is the main enemy of healthy teeth as it can weaken the surface of the teeth, ultimately contributing to the eventual erosion and loss of enamel that cannot be replaced. Carbonic acid is a mild acid that causes the pH levels in sparkling water to become slightly acidic but not to the degree you get with flavoured water or sugar dense, carbonated soft drinks. Dentists in Australia generally agree that plain, sparkling water is safe to drink as long as it is done in moderation.
Tips for Safely Drinking Sparkling Water
Use a straw
Drinking through a straw minimises the amount of acid that comes in contact with the teeth.
Rinse with plain water
Rinsing the mouth with plain water directly after drinking carbonated water will help wash away most of the acid.
Avoid brushing for at least 30 to 40 minutes
After eating or drinking the surface of the teeth becomes slightly weakened and you should wait a while before harsh brushing to avoid causing damage.
Drink sparkling water during mealtimes
Chewing naturally increases the production of saliva that can help neutralise the negative effects of acid on the enamel of your teeth.
At Rockingham Dental Centre, our skilled and highly experienced dental practitioners specialise in preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry in the Rockingham area of West Australia. Give us a visit to find out how we can help you keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright and beautiful.
