EVERYDAY I’M GUZZLIN’
When protecting your teeth for a lifetime – it’s not just sugary cakes and candies you need to worry about. What you DRINK plays a huge role in the health of your mouth!
Many things that we all drink today – energy drinks, coffee or lattes, sodas, juices, lemon water, carbonated beverages, seltzer water – are LOADED with sugar and/or acids. These drinks can cause cavities and loss of enamel (the hard protective outer layer of your tooth that you want to keep!)
A few tips:
- The majority of what you drink each day should be plain water. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water consumed per day.
- People are surprised to learn that many of your favorite bottled waters are actually acidic and can be hard on your teeth! Reach for alkaline bottled water or tap water instead.
- Don’t sip on your drinks (besides water, of course) all day long. If you are going to have the occasional soda or juice – drink it in one sitting, ideally with a meal.
- After the occasional sugary or acidic beverage – wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Brushing right away can actually cause MORE damage – by scrubbing the acid into your teeth and scrubbing away your weakened enamel.
Next time you’re craving a sweet drink opt for Kombucha (3-10 grams of sugar) or Coconut water (.4 grams of sugar)!
