Sparkling water habits to protect teeth
Experts, including Edmond Hewlett, D.D.S., spokesperson for the ADA, detailed whether sparkling water is safe for the teeth, according to a news article from Food World News.
Previous research has indicated that while plain sparkling water is safe in moderation and may result only in minimal erosion compared with sodas and sports beverages, individuals who consume sparkling water with added flavors and citric acid, sip sparkling water continuously over long periods of time and replace fluoridated tap water with sparkling water may be at an increased risk of enamel erosion.
The experts cited in the article noted that the carbonic acid present in sparkling water lowers the pH of the beverage to between 4 and 5. However, saliva is capable of restoring the pH of the oral cavity when plain sparkling water is consumed occasionally and in short periods of time. When flavoring and citric acid are added to sparkling water, the pH can fall. Dr. Hewlett stressed that more acidic beverages can lead to greater tooth erosion, particularly if individuals consume them regularly.
Those who drink sparkling water were advised to opt for unflavored beverages, use a straw to reduce contact with the teeth, consume the beverages with meals, rinse with plain water after consumption, and brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste at least 30 minutes after finishing sparkling water to minimize the risk of erosion and keep the teeth healthy.
Read more: Food World News
The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.