When you feel thirsty, are you more likely to reach for a glass of water or a flavored beverage? We enjoy a wide assortment of drink choices, but some options can be more harmful to your smile than others. When your preferred beverages are sweetened, they can make you more vulnerable to cavities. Soft drinks can be particularly concerning – they contain sugar, but they are also concerning for their acidity. While your oral hygiene routine and regular dental exams help you stay safe against tooth decay and other threats, your diet also matters. You can discuss positive, smile-friendly behavioral changes with your St. Louis, MO dentist, Dr. Johnson, during your next exam.
Certain Drinks Can Increase Your Risk For Cavities And Teeth Stains
What factors should concern you when it comes to your beverage preferences? Drinks that are high in sugar, like soft drinks, juices, and many sports beverages, can put you in more jeopardy for experiencing dental decay. Dark and color-rich drink options can be a cosmetic concern. Over time, particles that give those drinks their color can accumulate on your enamel, which can lead to teeth stains.
Will Caffeine Have A Negative Effect On Your Oral Health?
What is your caffeine consumption doing to your smile? That can depend on your caffeine sources. If you prefer soft drinks and energy drinks, the sugar contained in them can make you more likely to need dental fillings or dental crowns at future dental appointments. Coffee and tea can be served without added sugar. However, they can increase your risk for dry mouth, which makes it harder for your body to protect your teeth during the day. Higher amounts of caffeine consumption can also make it harder to avoid issues with bruxism, which can damage your teeth over time.
The Importance Of Drinking Water To Stay Hydrated
When it comes to staying hydrated, sticking to water can have benefits worth acknowledging. Water is free of particles that can stain teeth, and it is also free of sugar. Drinking water that contains fluoride can actually make your teeth more resistant to decay, as this mineral encourages stronger tooth enamel. Consuming water while you eat also helps you wash away debris from your meal that could stick to teeth and provide more food for bacteria.
Our St. Louis, MO Dentist’s Office Can Help You Protect Your Smile
At our St. Louis, MO dentist’s office, Dr. Johnson is committed to helping patients stay on top of their oral hygiene needs. In addition to providing preventive care on a consistent basis, we are ready to provide treatment if problems affect your oral health. To find out more, or to make an appointment, please call Magnolia Family Dental at 314-822-4521.
