If you like to enjoy sparkling water from brands like La Croix or Perrier every now and then, you’re not alone. Sparkling, carbonated water has become incredibly popular of late. In fact, sales have doubled in the last five years. While many understand that these drinks are more healthy for our body than soft drinks, many people still wonder, is this water bad for my teeth?
As with many questions in health care, the answer lies on a spectrum. In relative terms, sparkling water is generally better for your teeth than soda, but worse than tap water. The reason for this lies in the pH rating of each beverage.
Tap water has a pH of 7.0, which is considered neutral, meaning that it’s neither acidic or basic. Traditional soft drinks have a pH around 3-4, on average. Sparkling water’s pH rating clocks in at around 5-6, making it slightly acidic, depending on the flavoring and how it was produced. Drinks that are more acidic wear down our enamel more than drinks that are neutral, such as water.
Research shows that these sparkling drinks should be viewed as “potentially erosive” rather than as water with a twist. While they may not be as corrosive as soda, there is still a chance that sparkling water may cause damage to your teeth.
If you have any questions about your teeth or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.