Friday, April 19, 2024 Sip smart to safeguard your smile
by University Health Center
The beverages you consume can affect your teeth. Some drinks bathe your teeth in acids that your saliva struggles to neutralize fast enough which leaves your teeth vulnerable to damage.
The pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance on a scale from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. The lower the pH, the more acidic the substance.
Water is supposed to be neutral with a pH of 7, but not all waters are created equal.
Common pH values for drinking water
Tap water typically has a pH close to 8, while bottled waters vary depending on the brand:
Highly acidic: Propel® flavored water (3.7 pH)
Mildly acidic: Dasani® (5.6 pH), Aquafina® (5.9 pH), Fuji® (6.6 pH)
Neutral: Smartwater® (6.97 pH), Evian® (7.53 pH)
Basic, which is protective in nature for the teeth: Essentia® (9.5)
Damage caused by acidic beverages
Cavities, holes in the teeth, can develop due to prolonged exposure to acidity. Also, acid erosion, the gradual wearing off of the enamel surface, can lead to increased sensitivity and even tooth decay.
Protecting against acidic beverage damage
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to mitigate the harm caused by acidic beverages:
- Limit exposure: Try to consume acidic beverages within a 20-minute timeframe to minimize the duration of acid exposure. Avoid sipping on them throughout the day.
- Choose wisely: Opt for less acidic alternatives whenever possible. Consider the pH levels of different bottled waters before making your selection.
- Stimulate saliva flow: After consuming acidic beverages, chew sugar free gum for 5-10 minutes to stimulate saliva flow which helps bring the pH in your mouth back to neutral.
Whether you need preventive services or treatment for existing dental issues, the Dental Clinic at University Health Center can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Don't wait until problems arise—schedule an appointment today and start prioritizing your dental health.
Call 402-472-7495 to schedule. Learn more about UHC's dental services on the website.