Our Hygienist Shares The Drinks To Sip & Swerve This Summer

With Summer coming up it’s likely we will all be doing a bit more drinking. That said, what we are sippin’ on can have a big impact on our teeth. Drinks contain different levels of sugar, acidity and ingredients that can cause decay and staining. Others are packed with vitamins and good stuff to keep our teeth glowing. Wondering what to sip and swerve this Summer? Here our hygienist, Flavia shares the drinks to enjoy and avoid this Summer. Chin, chin!

What Are The Healthiest Drinks For Our Teeth?

With so many drinks on the market that claim to be healthy it’s hard to know what to choose. The thing is not all those claims are true when it comes to your teeth. “While it’s ok to indulge from time to time, sticking to teeth-friendly drinks will keep your smile bright and healthy” says Flavia. These are the best drinks for your teeth this Summer.

Water

Enough said. Water is not only great for your teeth, it keeps your skin hydrated and glowing and is just an all round good egg. And what about sparkling? Go for it, carbonated water is generally off for teeth though watch out for added sweeteners and sugar. Simply adding a wedge of lemon or lime can add a bit of a kick without damaging your pearly whites. 

Coconut Water

If you fancy something a bit sweeter, coconut water provides heaps of benefits. It is packed with potassium, magnesium and electrolytes which are all good for your body and teeth. Make sure you choose varieties with low sugar and stick to one a day. You know what they say about too much of a good thing.

Gin & Soda Water

If you are heading to a pub garden and wondering what to enjoy in the sunshine, gin and soda water is a teeth-friendly choice. Gin has zero sugar and mixed with soda and lime it provides refreshment without the decay. Cheers to that. 

Fresh, Cold Milk 

For the ultimate smile-pleaser go for a cup of fresh, cold milk. A humble glass of milk is a great choice for your teeth, packed with vitamins and calcium that strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay. What about milkshakes? Watch out for sugar, however the odd chocolate or banana milk is ok and has delicious benefits. 

And What Drinks Are Worse For Your Teeth? 

Before you get sippin’ take a note of these teeth offenders and try to avoid or enjoy them in moderation. The drinks on this list can cause decay and staining and get in the way of a bright summer smile. 

Sweet Fizzy Drinks

We are looking at you coca-cola. Fizzy drinks packed with sugar are one of the worst options for your teeth. They are high in all the things that teeth do not like, acidity, sugar and carbonation. Swerving your cola for fizzy water is a great Summer swap. 

Tea & Coffee

Look, we all enjoy an iced latte, cuppa or cheeky cappuccino however understanding the effect they can have on our teeth is important. If you are a tea and coffee lover make sure you see your hygienist regularly to reduce stains and keep your teeth healthy. 

Cocktails

Margarita, anyone? When it comes to cocktails – sip carefully, While there are healthier choices some are packed with sugar and high in acidity. Try and choose cocktails that have less ingredients and are not too sweet. These will be better for your teeth and remember to brush before bed. 

How Can You Protect Your Teeth From Unhealthy Drinks? 

Regular Hygiene 

If your teeth are feeling a bit sticky or grimy from one too many soft drinks, it could be time for a clean. Checking in with your hygienist at least 3 – 4 times a year can reduce stains and keep your mouth feeling fresh and healthy. Why not sign up for a hygiene membership to save and stay on top of your oral care? At LoveTeeth you can enjoy personalised treatments to look after your teeth and gums.  This helps prevent decay, plaque build up and keeps breath nice and fresh. There really is no better feeling than that post hygiene freshness. 

Healthy Swaps

Trying to swap fizzy, sweet drinks for healthier options and reducing tea and coffee can also help. If you are having a lot of sweet drinks, sipping water and rinsing in between can help to reduce decay. And remember to brush twice a day and floss regularly .Looking after your teeth starts at home and embracing consistent, simple and effective dental habits is the best way to protect your smile. 

Whiten & Brighten

To keep a bright white smile and enjoy your morning juice (who said you can’t have your coffee and drink it?) Why not go for one of our stunning whitening treatments? Whether you prefer an at home option or faster in clinic treatment – we can keep your teeth the perfect shade however many iced coffees you indulge in this Summer. Book a free consultation to chat to one of our team. 

Teeth-Friendly Take-Aways

Enjoying your favourite drinks this Summer is fine in moderation, however be mindful of the impact they have on your teeth. Try to avoid fizzy drinks packed with sugar and opt for healthier options like coconut water or gin and soda. Seeing your hygienist regularly can prevent decay and keep gums healthy. As can keeping up with good oral hygiene at home – brushing twice a day and flossing properly are simple ways to keep your smile healthy.