What is It about Sports Drinks that Harm Your Teeth?
Posted on 6/10/2018 by Lemond Hunter
As an athlete, it is important to keep your body hydrated and healthy. Often times, athletes feel the best way to stay hydrated is to consume sports drinks rather than water. While these beverages often contain electrolytes, they can be damaging to your teeth.
Enamel Erosion
Sports drinks contain high levels of acid and sugars, which are damaging to the teeth. Acidic beverages can corrode the tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. The enamel is also the hardest surface of your body, and it is intended to protect your teeth for a lifetime. Once it is gone, it doesn't regenerate, so the structural integrity of your teeth could be at risk.
Tooth Decay
The sugar found in sports drinks also make your teeth vulnerable to decay. Cavity-causing bacteria feed off of these sugars. They are allowed to reproduce and live within the plaque, which can eventually lead to tooth decay. Untreated decay causes cavities, gum disease, and even the more severe forms of periodontal disease.
Gum Disease
In addition to problems with the teeth, sports drinks can also cause problems with the gums. Also called periodontal disease, this chronic infection leads to inflammation of the gums. It occurs when bacterial plaque builds up with time, and toxins are released to infect and irritate the gums.
Without regular dental cleanings, it can create a rough substance called tartar. You won't be able to brush tartar off of your teeth, and only a dentist will be able to remove it.
Just like athletes need to care for their physical health, you'll also need to maintain your oral health. Whether you've experienced a problem or you just need a dental cleaning, we are here to help. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you to properly care for your mouth.
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Hunter Dental Care, 1739 NE 122nd Ave, Portland, OR 97230-1914 + (503) 256-3737 + hunterdentalcare.com + 11/27/2024 + Related Phrases: dentist Portland OR +
As an athlete, it is important to keep your body hydrated and healthy. Often times, athletes feel the best way to stay hydrated is to consume sports drinks rather than water. While these beverages often contain electrolytes, they can be damaging to your teeth.