Drinks and teeth
We all know how a baby tooth dropped into Coca-Cola will behave. It will lose weight, discoloration and numerous enamel cracks will appear. On the YT channel, you can find a video in which a young man shows what is left of a tooth submerged for some time in cola and another highly sweetened drink.
pH scale
The effect of beverages on teeth depends on several factors, but primarily on overall acidity. Anything that measures 5.5 or less on the pH scale is considered acidic. Acidic foods and drinks soften tooth enamel, making teeth sensitive and vulnerable to damage, such as cavities. Drinks high in acid and sugar can be doubly harmful. Therefore, it is extremely important to remember that after consuming beverages - such as the aforementioned cola - you should brush your teeth immediately to neutralize the acids produced by bacteria and reduce the risk of discoloration.
And what effect do beverages containing alcohol have on our teeth? The acids contained in alcohol easily lead to demineralization of teeth and enamel erosion. After drinking alcohol, the pH in the oral cavity drops. Human saliva has a pH of 6.5 to 7.4, while for example, beer is about 4.5, and wine ranges from 3-4 pH. Consuming alcohol not only acidifies the environment of the oral cavity but also reduces saliva secretion. Another danger is the sugar contained in alcohol. Liqueurs, cordials, and mixed drinks contain very large amounts of it, and as is well known, sugar ideally contributes to the onset and development of tooth decay.
Wine
White wine has a higher pH than red wine and can therefore be more damaging to tooth enamel. Red wine, on the other hand, can cause discoloration and stains.
Beer
The pH of beer ranges between 3.5-4. It can be classified in the same group as vegetable juices. It is therefore considered relatively safe for tooth enamel. The level of acids does not negatively affect the teeth, but only if we properly take care of our oral hygiene.
Vodka
Vodka has a pH of about 4, but in some cases, its pH can be as high as 8! Cheaper brands of vodka usually have a lower pH, while premium vodkas tend to have a higher pH. High concentrations of alcohol also have a drying effect. Saliva is one of the mouth's natural defense mechanisms against damage. Its absence caused by alcohol can contribute to the development of dental diseases.
Water
Water generally has no effect on teeth. Actually, maintaining good hydration increases saliva production and the flow of protective minerals in saliva, which shield the teeth against decay. Water with added fluoride has a very positive effect on teeth. Watch out for sparkling water! Sparkling water usually has a pH level between 2.7 and 3.3, which gives it a higher erosive potential than orange juice!
Coffee
Coffee can be slightly acidic (around 5.0 on the pH scale), but it can have a positive effect on teeth. Drinking coffee without any additives can help prevent the development of tooth decay. Enjoy your morning coffee, but without sweetening ;)
Milk
Numerous components of milk, including proteins and minerals such as calcium, inhibit the growth of many caries-forming bacteria in the oral cavity. At a pH above 6.5, milk is an excellent choice for keeping teeth strong and healthy.
Fruit juices
Most fruit juices are produced from concentrates, resulting in our teeth being exposed to much more acid than if we were to eat natural fruit. Juices can have different pH properties; orange juice has a pH of 3.5, and cranberry juice is as low as 2.6! Therefore, many healthy nutrition specialists suggest diluting fruit juice in a ratio of ½ juice to ½ water.
