There are few things as refreshing as a cold, carbonated beverage. However, you already know that soda is bad for your body and your teeth because of all the sugar that’s packed into it. But what about carbonated beverages that aren’t so sweet, like seltzer water? It’s nice that it’s not loaded with sugar, but it isn’t a safe bet for your pearly whites. Your dentist near Lumberton explains why.
Seltzer Water Is Acidic
The bubbly delightfulness of seltzer waters, like La Croix, comes from pressurized carbon dioxide that get shot into beverages. This process changes the pH of the drink, making it much more acidic than it was before it became carbonated.
When you sip seltzer water, the acid in it attacks your teeth, weakening your precious enamel. If you make a habit out of consuming them, you can stain your pearly whites or even contribute to decay.
It’s best to choose drinks that your teeth love. Plain water is one of the best things you can consume because it rinses your mouth, washing away bacteria and acids. However, if you get bored with unflavored H2O, you can always put a bit of fruit in it to add some fun. Milk is also good for your teeth because it is an excellent source of calcium.
The Best Way to Enjoy Seltzer Water
Seltzer water is less acidic than regular soda, fruit juice, and other beverages. So, although it’s not ideal for your teeth, there are much worse alternatives. You can occasionally enjoy an ice-cold La Croix without feeling guilty about it.
To protect your teeth, don’t drink your beverage over a long period of time. This is important because every time you take a sip, a new acid attack begins on your teeth, and each of these “attacks” lasts 20 minutes or so. You don’t have to chug your drink, but don’t linger too long, either. To minimize the contact the liquid has with your teeth, use a straw.
Also, don’t brush your teeth right after drinking seltzer water. You don’t want to scrub your enamel until after it has recovered a bit from being exposed to your beverage’s acid.
What if You’ve Indulged a Little Too Often?
If you love seltzer water, you might have taken in too much of it in the past. Thankfully, your dentist can help your teeth recover from any damage they might have experienced. Your dentist near Lumberton can look for signs of decay, fill in cavities, and give you tips on how to attain and maintain good oral health.
Seltzer water isn’t great for your teeth, but it could be much worse. Enjoy it with caution, and your pearly whites will thank you!
About Mt. Holly Family Dentistry
The team of dentists at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry is happy to provide services to folks in the Lumberton area. If you have questions about how to choose foods and beverages that are good for your mouth, or if it’s time for your next cleaning, contact the office at 609-267-3230.