Our Plano dentist loves helping people keep their smiles healthy and bright. But did you know that enjoying too many sodas, sparkling waters, and sour candies could damage your smile? That’s right – these tasty treats can damage your teeth and gums, leading to cavities, gum disease, and pain.
If you frequently enjoy these goodies, then it’s crucial to visit a dentist in Plano, TX, regularly to prevent lasting damage. So, contact Ankita J. Patel, DDS, at (972) 867-5989 to get the care your smile deserves today!
In this blog, our Plano dentist explains why you should limit sodas, sparkling waters, and sour candies to keep your gums and teeth strong.
How Sodas Damage Your Teeth
Full-sugar sodas taste great, but they can cause big problems for your teeth. This is because just 12 fluid ounces of full-sugar soda delivers roughly 35 grams of sugar, which accounts for around 70% of the advisable amount of added sugar in one’s diet per day.
But what happens when you drink sugary soda? Well, the sugar mixes with bacteria in your mouth, creating an acidic environment. This acidic environment damages dental enamel, which allows bacteria to penetrate teeth and cause painful cavities or root canal infections.
Diet Sodas
Our Plano dentist knows you’re curious – are diet sodas safe for your teeth?
Unfortunately, even diet sodas are harmful to your smile. While diet sodas don’t have sugar, they still contain carbonic acid.
Carbonic acid is created when carbon dioxide dissolves in water (which is the process that gives sodas those delightful bubbles). However, this acid weakens the protective enamel on teeth. And when enamel wears down, your teeth become especially weak and more likely to get cavities.
Uh Oh…Sparkling Water Isn’t as Safe as You Think!
Many people think sparkling water is a healthy choice. But our Plano dentist wants you to know that even sparkling water can still hurt your teeth. Similar to diet sodas, sparkling water may not contain sugar, but it often contains high levels of carbonic acid. This means that even unflavored, unsweetened sparkling water can weaken your enamel over time.
If you drink flavored sparkling water, the risks are even higher. Many flavored sparkling waters contain citric acid, which is even more damaging. The more often you drink these flavored sparkling waters, the more you expose your teeth to acid. As a result, you may encounter more gum and dental problems than those who drink still, unflavored water.
Sour Candies Are Extra Dangerous
Sour candies are super rewarding to eat, but they can be awfully hard on your tooth enamel. Indeed, sour candies can be some of the worst treats for your teeth, as they contain high amounts of both sugar and acid. This makes them double-trouble for your enamel.
The acid in sour candies softens your enamel. In fact, one study found that just two hours of exposure to sour candies could significantly diminish the structural integrity of tooth enamel.
But here’s an important note from our Plano dentist: If you brush your teeth right after eating them, you can wear down your enamel even more.
Therefore, our Plano dentist recommends waiting at least 30 minutes after consuming sour candies before conducting oral care.
What Happens When Your Enamel Wears Down?
Enamel protects your teeth from bacteria and damage. But once it wears down, it doesn’t grow back. When your enamel is weak, you may notice:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Yellowing of your teeth
- Worn down teeth
- An increased risk of cavities
If your enamel wears down too much, you may need fillings, crowns, or other dental treatments from our Plano dentist. This is why it’s so important to take care of your teeth now!
Tips to Protect Your Teeth
Now that you know how sodas, sparkling water, and sour candies can harm your teeth, here are some ways to protect your smile:
1. Drink More Uncarbonated, Unflavored Water
Plain water is the best drink for your teeth, bar none. It helps wash away food, acid, and bacteria while keeping you properly hydrated.
If you drink soda or sparkling water, rinse your mouth with plain water afterward.
2. Use a Straw
Reusable straws help keep acidic or sugary drinks away from teeth. This minimizes contact with your pearly whites, keeping them healthier long-term.
3. Don’t Sip All Day
The longer you expose your teeth to acid and sugar, the worse the damage. Our Plano dentist recommends drinking your soda or sparkling water in one sitting instead of sipping it all day.
4. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum helps your mouth produce more acid-neutralizing saliva. As a result, you’ll have fresher breath and stronger teeth.
5. Eat Cheese or Dairy
According to our dentist in Plano, TX, dairy products (like cheese, milk, and yogurt) contain ingredients that help protect your enamel. These yummy foods not only neutralize acids but also provide calcium to keep your teeth strong.
6. Brush and Floss Daily
Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is the best way to remove plaque and bacteria from the mouth. Our Plano dentist recommends using a nano-hydroxyapatite or fluoride toothpaste to help fortify your enamel.
7. Visit Your Plano Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups with Ankita J. Patel, DDS, help keep your teeth in top shape. Our Plano dentist can catch problems early and give you advice on keeping your smile healthy for life.
Healthier Alternatives to Enjoy
If you love soda, sparkling water, or sour candies, don’t worry! Our Plano dentist is here to give you some healthier alternatives:
- Drink plain water or add fresh fruit for flavor.
- Try herbal tea instead of soda.
- Eat fresh fruit instead of sour candies.
- Enjoy nuts, cheese, or yogurt for a satisfying snack.
Making small changes can protect your teeth and still satisfy your cravings.
Protect Your Pearly Whites – Visit a Plano Dentist Today!
Sodas, sparkling water, and sour candies may be tasty, but they can cause serious damage to your teeth. But remember this: Taking care of your teeth now means fewer dental problems later. So, if you have any questions or need a check-up, contact our Plano dentist today!
Click here to request a visit with Ankita J. Patel, DDS, or reach our dentist in Plano, TX, at (972) 867-5989 for booking information.