We all know the impact that sweet fizzy drinks and too much coffee can have on our teeth, but less is known about how bad sparkling water is for your dental health. To answer is sparkling water bad for your teeth, we went to the experts.
We're not talking sparkling water filled with sweetener and flavourings, we're referring to plain sparkling water that you may have even made at home in your sparkling water maker. There are actually many benefits to drinking sparkling water, for our digestive health as well as weight loss.
If you're concerned about the impact sparkling water is having on your teeth, we've found all the answers for you including whether or not sparkling water is bad for your teeth, how our teeth react to sparkling water plus what the experts say.
Is sparkling water bad for your teeth?
There is very little evidence to suggest that sparkling water made at home without the addition of other ingredients is harmful to your teeth. However, if the sparkling water is shop bought or if there are any added ingredients, it could be harmful.
According to the Harley Street Dental Studio, most carbonated drinks, including some sparkling water, can be bad for our teeth.
'While drinking sparkling water may not be as bad for your teeth as drinking full sugar versions of fizzy drinks, it’s also not as good for you as you may think. The process of making the fizzy water involves adding carbonic acid. Acids are very damaging to the teeth, as they weaken the enamel surfaces, making the teeth vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. Diet fizzy drinks, such as sugar-free cola are also problematic for the teeth, even though they don’t contain any sugar, due to their pH value.'
In conclusion, carbonation alone isn't enough to damage our teeth, but the addition of other ingredients can have a damaging impact on your teeth. So if you love the addition of fizz to your water, then the best way is to make it at home without any added ingredients.
Ways to reduce your risk of enamel damage
Balance – drinking too many carbonated drinks including sparkling water isn't advised by dentists so maybe avoid drinking it everyday, particularly if it's shop bought.
Water – if you eat or drink something acidic, it's a good idea to also have a glass of plain water with you too. You may even want to rinse your mouth out with plain water after eating or drinking acidic food.
Dentist – make sure you have regular check ups with your dentist.
Brush – if you haven't eaten something acidic, then it's advised to wait at least 30 minutes after you finish eating or drinking to brush your teeth to help boost your enamel.
How to spot enamel damage
If you regularly drink carbonated drinks including sparkling water, it's a good idea to be aware of the signs of enamel damage and discuss this with your dentist.
Sensitivity: Does hot or very cold things cause you to feel pain or irritation?
Discoloration of the teeth: Have your teeth changed in colour to a more yellow, brown, or darker colour?
General concerns: Have you noticed any unusual symptoms out of the ordinary in your teeth or gums?