OK, so we know how hard it can be to start your day (especially Mondays) without your perfect cup of coffee in your favorite mug. We also know how hard it is to give up that afternoon soda that gives you the extra pep in your step to help get through the rest of the day. But your Northcutt Dental dentist in Greater Birmingham also knows what these kinds of drinks can do to your smile. Take a minute to check this list and see how many of these beverages you consume and decide if maybe it’s time to cut back from or cut off completely.
- Coke, Soda, Pop
Whatever you call it, cokes or carbonated sodas are not smile-friendly. We all know they’re loaded with sugar (that’s what makes them taste so good) and that they contain potent acids that can damage or even destroy the enamel on your teeth. Darker colored beverages also contain a caramel food coloring that likes to stick to your smile causing stains. And don’t think because you drink diet you’re out of the woods; they’re bad too. Anyone you meet at your Northcutt Dental dentist office is going to tell you to opt for water instead of soda, but we understand sometimes you just need a little bubbly pick me up. Be sure to at least swish some water in your mouth afterward, or even better – BRUSH! - Coffee and Black Tea
Like we said before, we know how hard it can be to get your day started without a cup of joe. But consider this your coffee wake up call! Before we talk about the bad things coffee can do to your teeth, it’s important to note that some coffees that contain high amounts of something called polyphenol can help to break up harmful bacteria. Unfortunately, if coffee residue stays on your teeth for too long, it can cause bad breath, enamel erosion, and cavities. Black tea and coffee can also lead to stains on your teeth. Drink your coffee, but you must – BRUSH! - Fruit Juices/Sports Drinks
It seems strange to think that fruit juice can be a bad thing, but some juices contain as much sugar as some of the leading cola brands. Citrus juices like orange juice also contain very high levels of citric acid that can lead to enamel and tooth decay. Sports drinks aren’t much better for your smile, so you should only enjoy them in moderation. They also loaded with decay-causing sugar and can sometimes contain an unhealthy amount of calories and caffeine. If you’ve just enjoyed a glass of juice or a swig of a sports drink, it’s OK. Now it’s time to – BRUSH!
Your Northcutt Dental dentists in Semmes, Bay Minette, Cottage Hill/Mobile, Fairhope, Helena, and Hoover want you and your smile always to be healthy and happy. That’s why we offer some advice and tips like this to guide you toward making choices that are better for you and your teeth. If you have any questions about how you can better care for your smile at home, never hesitate to give your neighborhood Northcutt Dental office a call. We’re always happy to help!
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7:30 – 4:30 Saturdays
