You
may not realize it, but every sip you take of a drink other than pure water
exposes your teeth to all sorts of harmful substances. Never fear, there are a
few things you can do to prevent early tooth decay. Here are a few drinks to
avoid or use with caution:
Soda
– This one seems obvious - carbonated soft drinks possess high levels of sugar
and acidity, which hurt tooth enamel and can lead to decay and cavities. The
acidity in sodas can leave your teeth coated with sugary sweetness for up to an
hour after the consumption of just one can of soda.
Sports
drinks – While they leave you feeling hydrated after a particular daunting game
of basketball, this category is probably the worst in terms of sugar levels and
acidity.
Coffee
– Beware caffeine lovers, this morning pick-me-up can leave your teeth yellow
and dull. To decrease these effects, try drinking with a straw to avoid direct
contact or follow each cup with continuous water consumption.
Tea
– While calming, tea also has potential staining power. Tea contains a
substance called tannic acid, which is what gives it the dark color. If you
have pits and grooves on your teeth, the tannic acid may settle into them,
causing discoloration over time.
Fret
not, coffee drinkers, energy seekers and soda aficionados, while the beverages
you crave host myriad side effects, you can still keep your choppers in tip top
shape. Using a straw, drinking more water, brushing at least twice a day and flossing
regularly will help to protect your teeth from sugar buildup and decay.
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