Is drinking flavored water bad for my teeth?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Flavored water is a sneaky cause of tooth decay.
You may be wondering why, since itβs usually sugar-free and there are no artificial sweeteners. The reason is that itβs most often citrus flavored: lemon, lime, grapefruit, and so forth.
The citric acid in the flavored water eats away at your tooth enamel, which can cause stains, sensitivity, decay, and cavities. It also makes the waterβs PH particularly acidic which is not good for your teeth either.
There are a couple of things you can keep in mind to minimize negative repercussions:
First, if youβre going to drink flavored water, do it in one sitting and with food. Thatβs better than sipping on it by itself, over a long period of time, which allows it to coat your teeth all day long.
Second, limit the amount you give to children. (Their enamel is not fully developed and so theyβre more susceptible to decay.)
As with soda, juice, energy drinks, or anything else; we recommend consuming in moderation, having with food, and brushing your teeth afterwards. Finally, donβt forget to schedule your routine dental cleaning appointment where you will get your teeth cleaned, as well as have a routine exam with the dentist and hygienist.