If your child participates in any kind of athletic activities, you know how common sports drinks are. Companies market them for hydration, so you may assume they're a reasonable choice during and after physical activity.
From your dentist’s perspective, however, sports drinks are one of the more damaging beverages children's teeth are exposed to regularly.
The Problem with Sports Drinks
Sports drinks contain two things that damage tooth enamel: sugar and acid. Sugar feeds the bacteria in the mouth that produce acid as a byproduct. The drink's acidity compounds this effect. Together, they soften enamel and create conditions where decay can develop more quickly than it would from sugar alone.
How Much Damage Can Sports Drinks Cause?
Pediatric dentists are well aware of the enamel erosion that results from frequently consuming sports drinks. Unlike tooth decay, which develops in specific spots, acid erosion affects the overall surface of the tooth. It can make teeth appear more yellow, feel more sensitive, and become more susceptible to cavities over time. Once enamel is lost, it does not grow back.
What Parents Can Do
Water is still the most effective hydration for most youth athletic activities and does not damage enamel. If your child does consume sports drinks, a few practical steps can reduce their negative impact.
- Rinse with water immediately after drinking to reduce the time acid comes in contact with teeth.
- Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to prevent further enamel abrasion while tooth surfaces are softened temporarily.
- Avoid sports drinks in the hour before bed. Saliva flow decreases during sleep, which reduces the mouth's natural ability to neutralize acid.
Ask Your Pediatric Dentist in Phoenix
If your child consumes sports drinks regularly and you have concerns about their teeth, bring it up at their next checkup. The team at Tatum Pediatric Dentistry in Phoenix, AZ, can assess the condition of their enamel and provide guidance based on their specific situation.