We’re all aware that the best choice we can make for our bodies is to drink pure water. It’s calorie and sugar-free; every part of our body needs it to function well. However, getting ourselves to drink enough of it can be challenging. Some people find it tasteless and can’t bring themselves to drink it regardless of its temperature or how good it is for you. Recently, social media has introduced the ‘sparkling water’ trend. With tons of flavor options available while still being free from calories, sodium, and sugar, it is the perfect answer.
How Sparkling Water Still Presents A Threat To Your Teeth
Are you shocked to discover that this seemingly healthy alternative to sugary drinks still poses a significant threat to oral health? We know you’re trying to ensure you stay hydrated without having to drink water, but it’s less safe than it seems. So what is it about this seemingly innocuous drink that makes it a hazard to your teeth? The secret lay in those fizzy bubbles that make it so alluring. Those bubbles result from carbon dioxide being injected into the water, producing carbonation. Unfortunately, the injection of this gas into the water changes its pH level, which measures the acidity or baseness of a substance. In general, water is neutral, neither acid nor base. Carbonic acid is produced with the injection of carbon dioxide, elevating the water’s pH to an acidic 3.
This acid causes the enamel of your teeth to soften after you drink your bubbly water, making it at greater risk of damage and decay. While a pH of 3 isn’t as bad as sodas and other high-sugar drinks, it’s enough to impact the health of your teeth. This is significantly true for those with sensitive teeth or compromised enamel health for other reasons. There are limited options available to allow you to avoid the risks associated with drinking sparkling water for hydration:
- Don’t: If you can forgo the carbonation, you can get the same benefit from drinking flavored, uncarbonated water without risking exposing your enamel to harm.
- Mix It Up: Don’t rely on sparkling water for your hydration. You can still use it as a primary source, but drink a regular glass of water between each sparkling beverage.
- Rinse: This is the least practical approach but can make a notable difference. If you simply cannot go without your carbonated sparkling water, rinse your mouth with clean, non-sparkling water between every glass. Waiting for about 30m-1h to eat anything after drinking sparkling water, followed by a clean water rinse, can also help.
Talk to The Alvarado Family Dental Center For More Tips
If you’re ready to start focusing on the health of your teeth and staying hydrated, speak to us today. We’ll help you find ways to maintain your lifestyle while also enjoying the benefits of staying well-hydrated. It all starts with a call to (213) 383-3314. We’ll schedule a consultation with Dr. Alireza Movassaghi or another team member. They’ll help educate you on the risks of this and other trends and help you make choices to improve your oral health.