There is nothing quite like unwinding with your favourite drink during a sunny afternoon or a long summer evening. But before you sip, it’s worth considering how your choice of beverage might affect your dental health. Some drinks can spell trouble for your teeth, while others are far less harmful when preserving your sparkling smile.
Here’s a breakdown of alcoholic drinks to avoid—and which ones are kinder to your teeth—so you can sip responsibly and protect your oral health.
The Worst Drinks for Your Dental Health
Whiskey and Cola
Whiskey and cola may be a classic combination, but it needs to bring you more. The cola is loaded with sugar and acids that erode your enamel, making your teeth more prone to cavities. On top of that, its dark colour can stain your teeth when paired with whiskey. It’s a double whammy for your smile.
Apple Cider
Refreshing and popular during the summer, apple cider is deceptively harsh on your teeth. Its high acidity can erode enamel over time, gradually wearing down your teeth’s natural protective layer. Diluting it with water may help reduce its impact slightly, but there are more practical solutions for some. For your dental health, opting for another drink might be worth considering.
Vodka Cranberry
Cranberry juice can seem like a healthier option, but be aware. Most commercial cranberry juices come packed with as much—if not more—sugar than a standard soft drink. Combine that with vodka, which can dry out your mouth, and you’re left with a recipe for potential oral issues. A lack of saliva leaves your teeth more vulnerable to damage, making this mix one to avoid.
The Best Drinks for Your Dental Health
Gin and Tonic
Looking for a safer choice? Gin and tonic is one of the more tooth-friendly options. Its lower acidity and clear colour mean it’s less likely to stain or harm your teeth. For a bonus, load your glass with ice; as it melts, it dilutes the drink slightly, reducing acidity even further.
Light Beer
If a cold beer is your go-to, consider switching to a light beer. This option is less harsh on your teeth, with reduced acidity and a higher water content than traditional beers. Its lighter colour also means less risk of staining your enamel—a win for beer lovers everywhere.
Cava
Craving something sparkling? Spanish cava is a relatively better option for your teeth when compared to most wines. With a pH of around 3.5 to 4, cava is less acidic than many other beverages, making it a wiser choice to indulge without excessive guilt. While no wine is entirely acid-free, cava strikes a decent balance.
Protect Your Teeth While You Sip
Thankfully, there are ways to enjoy alcoholic beverages while minimising their impact on your dental health. Follow these practical tips to give your teeth added protection:
● Stay Hydrated: Alternate between alcohol and water to rinse away sugars and acids, reducing their impact.
● Use a Straw: Drinking through a straw limits the contact between acidic drinks and your teeth.
● Don’t Brush Right Away: Wait at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic beverages before brushing your teeth to avoid damaging softened enamel.
● Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will go a long way in keeping your smile healthy.
Cheers to Smarter Drinking and Healthier Smiles
Whether you’re enjoying a chilled gin and tonic or a glass of cava this summer, indulging without neglecting your oral health is possible. Being mindful of what you drink and taking steps to protect your teeth can make all the difference in preserving your beautiful smile.
Raise your glass—smartly—and toast to a healthier, brighter smile! Cheers!
