Taking care of your smile between dental visits can help you avoid problems with tooth decay, and also help you preserve your appearance. It is important to note that good oral health habits should consist of more than just regular brushing and flossing – you should also make sure you protect your smile by making smart diet choices. Many beverage choices can cause problems for your smile for several reasons. In addition to being high in sugar, the wrong drink choices can also lead to a greater risk for teeth stains, and they can even wear down your enamel due to their acidity. Our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office encourages patients to make smart choices throughout the day so that they can protect their teeth. We can provide guidance and tips to help you make the right choices when you visit us for routine dental exams.
Soft Drinks Can Be A Significant Sugar Source
People who recognize the risks posed by soft drinks can focus on the impact they can have because of their high sugar content. Soft drinks and juices can both be relatively high risks if you want to avoid future dental fillings and dental crowns. Water provides a sugar-free alternative beverage. Soft drinks that are dark can also be a cosmetic dental concern, as they can leave particles behind that stain your enamel and dull your smile.
A Beverage’s Acidity Can Weaken Your Enamel
Coffee, tea, and soft drinks are among the many acidic beverages that are available to people. Acids from these drinks, as well as from spicy foods, can gradually weaken your enamel over time. By softening teeth, they can make it easier for cavities to form, and also make it more difficult for you to avoid teeth stains. This is one reason to be careful about drinking too many diet beverages – even without sugar, soft drinks can be trouble.
Are You Drinking Enough Water?
If you are generally dehydrated, you may struggle with dry mouth. Dry mouth sufferers have a difficult time producing enough saliva to protect their teeth and gums from oral bacteria. You can protect yourself by drinking more water on a consistent basis, and by chewing sugar-free gum. With that said, water is good for more than just preventing dehydration. Drinking it as an alternative to other beverage choices can help you avoid exposing yourself to potential sources of oral health harm, and it can be used to more effectively wash away food particles when you eat.
Your Prairie Village, KS Dentist’s Office Can Help You Protect Your Oral Health
Our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office is prepared to help patients deal with oral health problems that arise, and we can provide support through preventive care to help you avoid future issues. To learn more about our practice, call our Prairie Village dental practice at 913-901-8585.
