Can the Water You Drink Affect Your Oral Health?

Studies show that up to 60 percent of the human body is made of water, so staying hydrated is important to your overall health. But depending on what kind of water you are drinking; you could be damaging your teeth. If you’ve found that you have damage to your teeth, your dentist in Edison is happy to help. But if you’re curious about which types of water can help protect your smile and others that could harm it, keep reading!

Tap Water

While filtered water is very popular these days, many dentists recommend drinking standard tap water. It contains many minerals, including magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and fluoride. The amount of fluoride that naturally exists in American tap water has been carefully managed and regulated for more than 70 years, so it is very safe to drink. According to the CDC, drinking water with fluoride has been found to reduce the occurrence of cavities in adults and children by 25 percent. While fluoride can’t reverse existing signs of tooth decay, it can definitely help prevent it from starting.

Sparkling Water

Carbonated water, also known as sparkling water, can become too acidic and damage your teeth if even a simple squeeze of lemon or lime is added. In addition to the natural citric acid, the carbon dioxide that gives this beverage its satisfying fizz becomes carbonic acid in your mouth and can soften your enamel. If you were to drink it frequently, it could damage your teeth over time. 

Bottled Water

Drinking bottled water is great for your body, but the fact that it doesn’t carry much nutritional value leads many dentists to recommend not drinking it. If you choose bottled water over tap water, you could be missing out on minerals and a boost of fluoride for your enamel.

Coconut Water

This drink has become very popular, but it is definitely not a type of water. Coconut water is actually a juice that can weaken enamel and leave sugar particles on your teeth that feed cavity-causing bacteria.

Water with Lemon

If you go to a restaurant, it’s very typical for a waiter or waitress to bring you water with a wedge of lemon. This combination can be very refreshing and good for your body, but it can also be damaging to your teeth. Lemon and all other citrus fruits are naturally acidic. Scientists have found that teeth begin to demineralize at pH levels around 5.5. A healthy mouth typically carries a pH level of 6.3. Lemons carry a pH level between 2 and 2.6, which can easily weaken your enamel and encourage the erosion process.

The water you choose can have an impact on your oral health. When deciding which one is best for you, there are two things to consider: your teeth need fluoride (you can get it from toothpaste) and be mindful of pH levels. If the levels are too low, your enamel could be at risk!

About the Author

For over 10 years, Dr. Hiren Shah has been committed to giving his patients beautiful smiles. Dr. Shah completed his dental doctorate at New York University and has spent many years advancing his education in dental implants and intravenous sedation, but also offers many other services, including general cleanings and other preventive care. If you are due for a dental cleaning, contact the office at (908) 834-8448 or visit the website to schedule an appointment.