How Does Flavored Water Negatively Affect Your Mouth?

Did you know that drinking plenty of water is essential for improving skin health, regulating your body’s temperature, and delivering oxygen throughout your body? While it has multiple benefits, not many people enjoy the taste. That’s why companies have developed flavored water to add some delicious variety, such as kiwi-strawberry and blueberry-pomegranate! Though these drinks may be better for you compared to sugary ones, they can still negatively impact your smile. Keep reading to learn how flavored water affects your oral health and how you can protect your teeth.

How Does Flavored Water Impact Your Oral Health?

Although flavored alternatives may be tastier, here are several reasons you shouldn’t replace pure water with them completely:

• Cost of dye: Several companies use artificial food coloring to create their flavored water. On top of causing dental staining or discoloration, these products may also contain elements of lead, mercury, and arsenic, which can be harmful when ingested.
• High acidity content: Though fruits high in vitamin C, such as oranges and lime, provide nutritional benefits for your oral and overall well-being, they’re generally acidic. Consuming them too often can wear down your enamel. This means drinking flavored water containing these ingredients can gradually weaken your teeth.
• Fructose corn syrup: In addition to disrupting your body’s ability to realize when it’s full, this ingredient is also sugary. Since flavored water consists of fructose corn syrup, it can increase your risk of oral health issues like cavities and tooth decay. If left unchecked, this can lead to more serious problems in the future.

Ways to Protect Your Teeth

While drinking mainly flavored water does come with certain complications, there are several ways you can still maintain a healthy smile. You can ensure your pearly whites stay safe and strong by practicing the following measures:

• Keep drinking plenty of pure (nonflavored) water every day.
• Drink through a straw if you do sip on some flavored water.
• Munch on whole fruits and veggies to get your essential vitamins.
• Maintain good oral hygiene such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash every day.
• Schedule visits with your dentist every six months or sooner for checkups and cleanings.

You can still enjoy the delicious and fun tastes of flavored water, but only if you drink these products in moderation. Be sure to rinse your mouth out afterward and not completely cut out plain water from your diet. This way you can remain hydrated while preserving your smile for the long run!

About the Author

Dr. John Kuan graduated from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco. He also pursues countless hours of advanced training to remain on top of the latest advances in the field. He provides a wide range of high-quality and comprehensive services, including dental checkups/cleanings and periodontal therapy. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call him at 469-723-4000.