Acidic drinks might be flavorful, but they can also be harmful

Dr. Ronald Hsu 
for Clark County Today

In an effort to drink more water or try that latest kombucha beverage are you putting your teeth at risk? According to dental providers, sipping on sparkling water or guzzling lemon water throughout the day can erode your dental enamel. And once it’s gone you can’t get it back. 

Enamel is the thin, outer layer of your teeth, which provides protection to the sensitive inner layers. It’s known as the hardest substance in the human body, but that doesn’t mean it’s indestructible. In fact, it can be damaged by bacteria and everyday wear and tear on your teeth. Unfortunately, enamel does not regenerate. Enamel loss is permanent and unlike other tissues in the body, it doesn’t come back after it’s gone. 

Enamel erosion happens when acids soften and dissolve the mineral surface of teeth. Sugary soft drinks and sodas are easily recognized as drinks which wear down enamel, but there are some newer culprits as well: lemon water, kombucha, sports drinks, apple cider vinegar tonics, and even flavored sparkling water. Many of these drinks are below the pH threshold of 5.5 and many of us sip those drinks all day long.  That’s when enamel begins to degenerate.  

So how do you know if you have damage to your tooth enamel? Here are some early warning signs: 

• Your teeth are more sensitive to hot, cold or sweet food and drink 
• Your teeth have rough or uneven edges and small dents on chewing surfaces 
• Your teeth appear more yellow 
• Sometimes teeth are more prone to chipping 

While your teeth cannot regrow enamel there are steps you can take to protect the surface of your teeth: 

• Limit how often you drink acidic beverages 
• Drink through a straw to reduce the beverage’s contact with your teeth 
• Rinse with water after drinking or eating acidic items 
• Don’t brush immediately after acidic exposure 

But you don’t have to cut out these drinks completely, moderation is key. Try drinking them with meals and and prioritize regular preventive dental visits.”   

When you do brush, use fluoride toothpaste as it can increase tooth enamel’s resistance to wear and tear. And take caution if you whiten your teeth. There are some over-the-counter whiteners which can increase tooth sensitivity especially if misused. Professional whitening, under dental supervision, is recommended. While protecting your tooth enamel means preserving a bright smile, it also means protecting your long-term oral health. 

For more information about dental care check out the Delta Dental of Washington Knowledge Center. 

Dr. Ronald Hsu is a Delta Dental of Washington member dentist and a pediatric dentist at Storybook Dental in Camas, Washington.