One surprising drink a dentist urges you to avoid for healthy teeth

07 March 2024 , 10:04

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There's one drink in particular that's bad for your teeth (Image: Getty Images)

With the NHS dentistry crisis showing no sign of getting any better, it has never been more important to do all we can to look after our teeth.

Research shows one in four people in England are struggling to book or afford a check-up, and many of the few practices that still offer NHS services are finding it hard to cope. As such, Dr Rahul Nehra, lead dentist at, has shared a very useful bit of information about the one very surprising drink you really should avoid to help protect your pearly whites.

While knocking back artificially sparkling water may not be as bad for your teeth as drinking full sugar versions of fizzy drinks, it’s also nowhere near as good for your gnashers as you may think. Its carbonation process involves adding carbon dioxide, which forms carbonic acid when dissolved in water. So when you drink fizzy water, this acid lowers the pH level in your mouth, which can erode tooth enamel, leading to weakened teeth over time.

Many flavoured sparkling waters contain citric acid or other acids, which can potentially harm teeth. While fizzy water might be a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas, it's wise to consume it in moderation and alongside good dental hygiene practices, says Dr Nehra.

It's better to just drink plain water or if you really want the sparkling stuff, simply use a straw so the liquid doesn't come into direct contact with the enamel.

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Here are specific ways in which fizzy water can harm your teeth:

Acid Erosion: Carbonated water contains carbonic acid, which can erode tooth enamel over time due to its acidic nature.

Enamel Weakening: Continuous exposure to the acidity in fizzy water can weaken the protective enamel layer of your teeth, making them more susceptible to damage and decay.

Increased Sensitivity: Enamel erosion caused by fizzy water can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, making it uncomfortable to consume hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.

Dental Cavities: Weakened enamel from prolonged exposure to acidic fizzy water can increase the risk of dental cavities and decay.

Flavored Varieties: Flavoured fizzy waters often contain additional acids like citric acid, which can further contribute to enamel erosion and dental problems.

Potential Staining: Some fizzy drinks, especially those with added colouring agents, may contribute to tooth staining over time, particularly if consumed frequently.

Overall Dental Health: While fizzy water might be a better choice compared to sugary sodas, excessive consumption without proper dental care can still negatively impact overall dental health and hygiene.

Paul Speed