Is Sparkling Water Bad for Your Teeth?

There are many alternatives out there for people who are looking to avoid soda. One of the most popular of those is sparkling water. Seeing as there is no sugary additives, many people consider this bubbly beverage to be safe for their teeth. Unfortunately, they are mistaken, especially if they sip sparkling water all day.

All About the Acid

Everyone remembers the pH scale from high school chemistry. The scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a given object. Although sugar in soda can contribute to tooth decay that requires fillings to treat, it’s the acid that can be even worse. Acidic food and drink with a pH of five or less will wear down the enamel of your teeth, exposing the dentin and leaving your teeth sensitive to heat or cold. And the only way to restore teeth that have been eroded is with a dental crown. Regular water comes in at seven on the pH scale and sugary sodas come in at around two. Due to the carbonation in sparkling water, it actually is more acidic than regular water and can wear down the enamel in your teeth. This acidity from carbonation is why diet sodas also tend to be bad for your teeth.

Good Alternatives

There are a number of foods and drinks that can damage your teeth, but there are many, especially those with high nutritional value, that can help protect your teeth from harm. The best beverage for you to sip on throughout the day is water. It can help rinse any leftover debris from food, especially sugary foods such as raisins. If you find that you are having difficulty avoiding sparkling water, then you should consider at least rinsing your mouth out with water after drinking. If you notice any of the signs of enamel wear, such as sensitive and darkening teeth, then you should consider visiting a dentist. Dr. Siegel from Dental Excellence of Blue Bell can help strengthen your teeth and can offer a plan of action to help get you on the right track to healthy teeth. If you are in the Philadelphia area and have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call at (610) 272-0828.