Healthy habits, hidden risks — What your drinks may be doing to your teeth — Even low-sugar options like sparkling water and lemon water can contribute to enamel erosion

By Dr. Kim Trieu

Many of today’s “healthy” habits, like sipping lemon water, kombucha, or sparkling drinks throughout the day, have become part of daily routines in many households. But dental providers warn that these seemingly beneficial choices may be quietly affecting your teeth, gradually wearing down enamel over time.

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. Enamel begins to degenerate at a pH threshold of 5.5. Many of these drinks are below the pH threshold and many of us sip them all day long.

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

Your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold or sweet food and drink
Rough or uneven edges appear on your teeth and small dents on chewing surfaces
Your teeth appear more yellow
At times 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

Drink acidic beverages with meals
Drink through a straw to reduce the beverage’s contact with your teeth
Rinse with water after drinking or eating acidic items
Wait 20 minutes. Don’t brush immediately after acidic exposure

But you don’t have to cut out these drinks completely, moderation and awareness is key.

When you 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. If you’re interested in whitening products, try discussion with your dentist prior to starting a product. 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.