Is Seltzer Bad for Teeth?

An alternative to soda, seltzer water is quickly gaining popularity across the United States. Beyond liking the taste, many people appreciate the lower sugar content in seltzer – but is seltzer water bad for teeth? Read on to find out!

Seltzer & Enamel Erosion

Like soda, seltzer is acidic. This is because when carbon dioxide is pumped into water, it turns into carbonic acid, which reduces the pH of the water. Acidic beverages can erode enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and decay. This erosion generally occurs when drinks have a pH below 4. Seltzers are usually around 3 or 4, while many sodas are around 2.4. While consuming a lot of seltzer every day may not be the best for your teeth, it’s generally a healthier option than soda.

When choosing a seltzer, look carefully at the ingredients. Seltzers usually have a lower sugar content than sodas but some contain added sweeteners or flavoring agents that can be damaging to teeth. For example, check whether your seltzer contains added sugar or flavoring agents like citric acid. These additions can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

How to Reduce the Risk of Tooth Damage From Seltzer

If you’re worried that seltzer is bad for your teeth, there are some steps you can take to reduce its effects on your tooth enamel.

First, you should drink your seltzer in one sitting instead of savoring it throughout the day. Sipping it slowly increases the pH in your mouth, which raises the acidity levels for a longer period of time and can be more harmful to the teeth.

Drinking water or rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash after drinking a seltzer is another way to protect your teeth.

Finally, drinking seltzer while eating can help reduce your risk of tooth decay, as saliva production helps neutralize acids and keeps the mouth at a healthy pH level.

Our team encourages our patients to enjoy their favorite snacks and drinks in moderation. If you love seltzer, following these simple tips can help you still enjoy good oral health.

Categorised in: Healthy Diet