We admit sweet carbonated drinks are extremely tasty and refreshing to consume, especially after a long day. Sadly, your teeth aren’t huge fans of sodas.
Many soda brands contain sugars that form harmful acids in your mouth, which can damage the tooth enamel (the hardest substance in the body that protects the crowns of the teeth). This puts your teeth at a greater risk of getting cavities and in extreme cases, it can lead to tooth loss when a cavity doesn’t get treated.
But don’t worry, we’re not here to spoil a good time - we have some soda alternatives for better oral health that you’ll still be able to enjoy.
What Can You Substitute Sodas For?
- Water is the best drink for teeth! If you’re thirsty, opt for this beverage to quench your thirst instead of a can of soda. Water can (if added to your municipal water) contain fluoride that helps prevent cavities and refreshes your mouth with each sip.
- If you crave carbonation, sparkling water doesn’t contain any acidic ingredients or sugar that will wear down your enamel.
- For anyone who doesn’t like drinking plain water, flavoured water can be a good alternative. You can do this at home by slicing up a few lemons and cucumbers and infusing them in a pitcher of water. You can also add other ingredients like rosemary, other citrus fruits or berries.
- Milk contains lots of calcium and phosphorus to keep your teeth strong. If you love having a cold drink handy in the refrigerator, try stocking up on milk instead of soda.
- Polyphenols in tea can help fight against the cavity-inducing bacteria in your mouth, especially when brewed in fluoridated water. If you rely on sodas to get your caffeine fix, drinking tea can help with that.
Drinking teeth-friendly drinks is an important part of a solid dental care regimen. But to keep your teeth healthy at all times, continue brushing twice daily and flossing once every day. It’s also important to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Kildonan Crossing Dental Centre can treat all your teeth’s flaws, including cavities. If you’ve got a hole in your teeth that needs a filling, book an appointment with us or visit us at our Winnipeg clinic in Transcona, at the corner of Lagimodiere Boulevard and Regent Avenue.