Is Sparkling Water Better than Regular Water?
Sparkling water is just the craze today. Everybody seems to love sparkling water, perhaps convinced that it is better than ordinary water, which is somewhat acidic. What does the American Dental Association, or the ADA, have to say about that?
Some dentists say sparkling water, per se, should not be harmful to teeth, A recent study revealed that certain brands of the modern drink has a pH of 5, putting it in the acidic department. Many dental experts claimed, and the ADA as well, what they already knew all along, that sparkling water is generally more acidic than regular water that has a pH of 7.
However, though ADA has no research of late to prove that drinking normal amounts of sparkling water is dangerous to the enamel, it does not mean it will cause any harm. Acidity is harmful to the enamel and drinking exclusively sparkling water may prove perilous to the teeth. Many brands of sparkling water are infused with sugar, too, which if exclusively drank can increase the risk of cavities.
Some experts say that apart from the natural acidity of sparkling water some brands have added citrus-flavors which lowers the pH more and which can potentially damage tooth enamel. Citric acid is specifically responsible for enamel erosion, ADA says. The body recommends that if people should opt to hydrate themselves with citrus-flavored sparkling water, it better be drank in one serving rather than have it sip throughout the day, exposing teeth to the continuous onslaught of acid.
ADA recommends drinking fluoridated tap water in addition to sparkling water. But overall, people can enjoy normal amounts of sparkling water without worrying about their teeth.
There is one major exception, though. If you suffer from dry mouth syndrome, where production of saliva is decreased, plus you drink a lot of sparkling water (worst if you prefer the citrus-flavored varieties), it will tend to exacerbate the already acidic environment of the oral cavity. All the more will your mouth become dry and increase the risk for cavities.
Ask Our Lynnwood Dentist
Lynnwood dentistry says that it’s alright to enjoy sparkling water every now and then. Your natural, fluoridated water is most recommended for healthier teeth.
