Learn More From Our Elmhurst Dentists About How Different Drinks Affect Your Smile 

Written by Dr. Scharfenberg on Jul 30, 2019

Learn More From Our Elmhurst Dentists About How Different Drinks Affect Your Smile 

If you are one of the many who just can’t seem to get ahead of dental staining, it may be time to look at a part of your daily routine that isn’t so obvious: the beverages you’re drinking every day. The truth is that different drinks can affect your smile in a number of different ways. Keep reading to learn more from our Elmhurst dentists.

  • Water

Good old H2O is the absolute best beverage for your smile. Not only is it sugar and acid-free, it also keeps you hydrated and prompts saliva production. Every time that you are able to swap out another drink for water, you are giving your oral health a boost.

  • Coffee & Tea

Both of these morning staples can lead to dental discoloration and staining. To minimize this side effect, try rinsing your mouth with water after you finish your coffee or tea. And try to consume these beverages in short sittings, rather than continuously throughout the day.

  • Soda

Soft drinks are real killers when it comes to oral health; they are packed with sugars, and they are generally quite acidic. Minimize these indulgences as much as possible.

  • Energy Drinks

Many dental patients are surprised to learn that drinks that purport to be good for you are actually bad for your oral health. Generally speaking, energy drinks have about as much sugar as soft drinks. So, consume these sparingly, and rinse your smile regularly.

  • Wine

Red wine is a key culprit when it comes to dental staining, so white wine is a better choice if you are trying to maintain a bright, white smile. Both red and white vintages are acidic, which means that they temporarily soften and weaken dental enamel. Make sure that you wait to brush your teeth for about 20 to 30 minutes after acid exposure.

  • Fruit Juices

Fruit juices, especially those that aren’t freshly prepared, are laden with sugars. Additionally, many of our breakfast favorites, like orange juice, are highly acidic. So, although we think of fruit juices as being good for us, they actually need to be consumed smartly, and in moderation, in order to safeguard oral health.

Making small changes to your daily eating and drinking habits can lead to be big improvements in your oral health over time. As always, please feel free to reach out to our Elmhurst dentists to learn more and to schedule a personal consultation.