Use Moderation When Drinking These Unhealthy Beverages For Your Teeth
It is common knowledge that too many of certain kinds of unhealthy beverages are bad for our bodies. The excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine and alcohol found in many of today’s popular drinks have been well-documented to have adverse effects on our bodies. However, did you know that these beverages can have an immediate and negative impact on our teeth too? We have compiled a list of some popular drinks below and how to enjoy them in moderation.
Are Sodas, Juices and Energy Drinks Considered Unhealthy Beverages?
According to the American Heart Association, the proper amount of sugar intake should be about 38 grams for men and 25 gams for women. Did you know that drinking one 12 oz. Coca-Cola will give you a full 39 grams of sugar? That’s full day’s supply of sugar in one can! That’s not even the most sugary drink either.
The high sugar content of these drinks may contribute to a sugar addiction and can have a severe impact on your health. The impact on your teeth can be less noticable, as the damage occurs slowly over time. The more sugary drinks you consume, the more bacteria you have in your mouth, which can erode the enamel of your teeth. When that happens, your teeth can be exposed to developing cavities and decay.
What About Coffee? Are Coffee Drinks Unhealthy Beverages?
Many of today’s popular coffee drinks have just as much sugar or even more than a can of Coke. However, even people who drink their coffee black still run the risk of damaging their teeth. Over consumption of coffee can lead to tough stains on the teeth that can deteriorate your smile. Furthermore, coffee is highly acidic. Drinking too much black coffee can create a breeding ground for bacteria to weaken your enamel. Drink your coffee in moderation. We suggest no more than two cups a day.
Wine, Beer and Liquor Can Also Be Unhealthy Beverages For Your Teeth Too.
It may seem obvious that red wine, specifically, will stain your teeth. However, all wines pose an equal threat to your teeth due to the sugar content they contain. Whereby beers that are dark in appearance have a tendency to create harder stains on your teeth.
While liquor itself typically doesn’t stain the teeth, many of the sodas and mixers liquor is combined with can often contribute to tooth decay and damage if consumed excessively.
However, when it comes to alcohol, the biggest concern isn’t the stains or the sugar. It is actually the dehydration. Alcohol causes dry mouth and when there is a lack of saliva flow, the danger of bacterial growth and tooth decay increases dramatically.
How Do You Protect Your Teeth From Unhealthy Beverages?
After consuming some of these beverages, it may seem like a good idea to run and brush your teeth right away. However, brushing your teeth immediately after might do more harm than good. All of the drinks menitoned contain high amounts of acid, which can soften and damage the enamel of your teeth. Brushing immediately after drinking one of these drinks can actually intensify the effects of the acid.
We recommend that you drink water after consuming a bevarage mentioned above and then waiting at least 30 minutes before properly brushing your teeth. Likewise, swishing the water around in your mouth like a mouthwash will help to further cleanse your teeth of excessive bacteria.
Talk To Us About The Foods And Drinks That Affect Your Smile
A visit to your Spring Hill family dentist for your checkups and teeth cleaning is a perfect opportunity to ask questions about your diet and how it can effect your teeth. Moderate consumption of beverages won’t cause much of an issue for your teeth, as long as proper care is taken to maintain your oral health.
If it is time for a checkup, please call The Dental and Denture Care Center at (352) 848-1050 or contact us through our website here to schedule your appointment today. Our team of dental experts are here to give you the best smile of your life.
