Nothing sounds better than enjoying a refreshing drink outdoors with the sun shining brighter and longer evenings ahead. However, before reaching for your favourite beverage, consider how it might affect your smile. Certain drinks can wreak havoc on your teeth, while others offer a less damaging alternative.
Here, we break down the best and worst alcoholic beverages for your dental health—so you can enjoy your summer while preserving that sparkling smile.
The Worst Drinks for Your Teeth
Whiskey and Cola
If you want to protect your teeth in the long run, avoiding whiskey and cola is best. The combination may be popular, but cola contains acids and sugars that destroy your enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to cavities. The dark colour of the cola can also stain your teeth, especially when paired with whiskey. It’s a double blow for your dental health!
Apple Cider
Do you love a crisp apple cider in the summer? Your teeth might not. Apple cider is highly acidic, gradually eroding your enamel over time. While diluting it with water can reduce some of its damaging effects, it’s not the most practical solution. Steering clear of this orchard classic may be the best choice for those prioritising their dental health.
Vodka Cranberry
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly healthy cranberry juice in this mix. Many commercial cranberry juices, like the popular Ocean Spray brand, pack in more sugar than cola. Pair that with vodka, which dries out your mouth, and you’ve got a double threat. Saliva is essential for protecting your teeth; a dry mouth makes them more susceptible to damage.
The Best Drinks for Your Teeth
Gin and Tonic
For a safer cocktail option, gin and tonic wins the dental-friendly award. This drink has low acidity and is clear in colour, so it won’t stain your teeth like darker beverages. For a bonus, pack your gin and tonic full of ice. The ice will dilute your drink slightly as it melts, reducing acidity.
Light Beer
Craving a cold one? Choose a light beer to minimise harm to your teeth. Light beer is a safer option for summer barbecues with lower acidity and higher water content than traditional beers. Its lighter colour also reduces the risk of surface stains.
Cava
If you’re after something bubbly, consider cava. This Spanish sparkling wine has a relatively low acidity level, between 3.5 and 4, making it kinder to your teeth compared to most wines. While no wine is completely acid-free, cava offers a tooth-friendly middle ground that allows you to enjoy your drink guilt-free.
Practical Tips to Protect Your Teeth While Drinking
- Stay Hydrated: Alternate your alcoholic beverage with water to rinse away sugars and acids.
- Drink Through a Straw: Using a straw reduces contact between acidic drinks and your teeth.
- Don’t Brush Immediately: After consuming acidic food or beverages, wait 30 minutes before brushing to avoid enamel damage.
- Follow Up with Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly and maintain dental check-ups.
Raise a Glass to Better Dental Health!
Whether you’re enjoying a gin and tonic at a rooftop bar or sipping a light beer in the garden, you can indulge while keeping your teeth healthy. Being mindful of your drink choices can make all the difference in preserving your beautiful smile.
This summer, drink smarter and toast to healthier teeth. Cheers!
