5 surprising drinks that can damage your teeth

‘Healthy drinks’ that cause damage. - by Laura Barry

Taking care of your teeth is one of life’s great challenges. No one enjoys going to the dentist – so many of us put off those annual check-ups. Similarly, many of us believe if there’s no pain – there’s no problem. Unfortunately, many of the things we eat and drink can cause dental damage. Clinical Educator and dental hygienist Tabitha Acret of EMS Dental has given us the low-down on 5 drinks that seem ‘healthy’ but can actually cause tooth decay, damage tooth enamel and other issues.

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1. Juice

“Juice may seem like a healthy alternative to soft drinks, but it often contains more sugar than a can of soft drink. Water is a better option.”

2. Lemon water

“Lemons have a very low pH and drinking lemon water daily can cause irreversible damage to teeth. In fact, lemon juice is comparable to the acidity of battery acid. The acidity strips the tooth enamel, causing your teeth to be sensitive and more susceptible to decay. Once the enamel is eroded, it isn’t coming back!”

3. Flavoured 'waters'

“Even sugar-free flavoured waters that are supposedly ‘good for you’ have a pH of 3, which is as low as soft drinks, and can cause acid erosion to the teeth. Always remember to read the labels.”

4. Sports drinks

“Promoted as the go-to drinks for after workouts, sport drinks are high in sugar and have a low pH of 2-7 – 3.1. After exercising, your mouth doesn’t have as much saliva present – which is a natural buffer to sugar and acids - so the sports drink you are consuming can cause major damage to your enamel through erosion, causing tooth decay.”

5. Wine

“Wine is a highly acidic beverage, and most have a pH level of 2.9 – 3.5, which means a mouthful of red or white wine can erode your enamel. While red wine isn’t as acidic as white, red wine is more likely to stain your teeth. The best way to avoid a red smile is to ensure your teeth are plaque free. Routine cleanings with your dentist/hygienist in conjunction with good at-home oral care will keep your teeth sparkling.”

Did you know that kombucha is also bad for your teeth?

Watch the video below to learn how.

Laura Barry

Laura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes, travel and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.