We are all faced with hundreds of choices every day. Some are easier to make than others, while some choices are more impactful than choosing what color socks to wear. When we think of making healthy choices, we often focus on fat and calories and how they will affect the number on the scale. However, another vital factor to consider is how what you choose to eat and drink will affect the health of your smile.
Inside your mouth live millions of oral bacteria that help break down particles left behind after eating and drinking. These bacteria are helpful, but when they congregate in large quantities, they cause plaque, leading to tartar buildup, cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Making wise choices when it comes to what you drink is essential to maintaining a healthy smile, because with every sip you take, you are literally bathing your teeth in whatever drink you choose.
The Most Harmful Beverage Choices
- Carbonated soft drinks
- Most soft drinks are full of sugar, creating a thriving atmosphere for damaging oral bacteria. Soft drinks also contain phosphoric and citric acids to wear away tooth enamel.
- Sports drinks
- Popular among kids, teens, and athletes, sports drinks are very tasty. However, most sports drinks contain high quantities of sugar and should, thus, be avoided.
- Energy drinks
- Just as with soft drinks, energy drinks contain both high amounts of sugar and acids. They may perk you up, but they are damaging to your smile.
- Alcohol
- Liquor, beer, and mixed drinks contain a high amount of sugar and carbs, and they are also highly acidic. This combination increases the risk for severe oral health problems.
The Best Beverages for Your Smile
- Water
- There is no better drink option on the planet than water. Not only is it readily available, but it contains no harmful ingredients. Water also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from the teeth.
- Milk
- Milk contains calcium and vitamin D to help strengthen the tooth enamel and jawbone.
If your smile has suffered from the frequent indulgence of unhealthy beverages, contact Jefferson Dental Care. Our practice offers comprehensive dental treatments to reverse the damage caused by soft drinks and alcohol and restore your smile to optimal health and beauty.
Posted on behalf of Jefferson Dental Care
