The Smile Daily

Is Sparkling Water Good for Your Teeth?

Seltzer water, fizzy water, sparkling water—whichever name you prefer, this satisfyingly bubbly drink is all the rage. Combine the hydration of water with the zing of soda and you have yourself one delightful little drink. But is it actually good for you? And more specifically, does it harm your teeth? It turns out, the answer is not as straightforward as you might think.

Soft Drinks vs. Sparkling Water

‍In a matchup between sparkling water and soda, sparkling water wins every time. While sparkling water has its faults, it’s much better for your teeth (and your body!) than soft drinks. That’s because sodas contain lots of sugar which creates acid. And, acid is the enemy of strong enamel. It breaks down the structure of your teeth, leading to decay, erosion, dulling, and breakage.

Because sparkling water is typically sugar-free, it’s less harmful to your teeth than soda. If you’re trying to create healthier habits but just can’t let go of your bubbly afternoon treat, reach for sparkling water next time. Your teeth will thank you. Plain old water is always the best choice, but sparkling water is a step in the right direction.

Sparkling Water and Dental Health

While sparkling water is a better alternative to soda, it’s not without its downsides. Regardless of the flavor you choose, seltzers have a lower pH than normal water. So, they’re still introducing acid to your mouth and teeth. We know what you’re thinking: “But wait, I thought sugar was the culprit?”

In fact, sugar doesn’t actually cause damage on its own. Sugar feeds bad bacteria in your mouth which produce acid, and that’s what causes the harm. So, in a way, when you drink an acidic drink like sparkling water, you’re just skipping a step in the process and going straight to teeth-damaging acid. Now, drinking sparkling water won’t create as much acid as soda, but it’s still acidic. So, it does have the potential to damage your teeth over time.

Tips for Enjoying Sparkling Water

As with anything, moderation is the name of the game. It’s probably okay to enjoy sparkling water from time to time. (We love a cold La Croix as much as the next person!) But, if you do opt for a seltzer, keep these tips in mind.  

• Slurp, don’t sip. Yep, that’s right. Sipping your seltzer over the course of a long time keeps your mouth acidic. Instead, try to finish your drink in one sitting so that the pH of your mouth can recover.

• Don’t substitute water. Remember, sparkling water shouldn’t replace normal water. You can drink seltzers occasionally, but you still need water, too.

• Use a straw. Drinking your sparkling water through a straw can help to keep the liquid—and acid—off of your front teeth.

• Enjoy in moderation. Try not to make a habit of drinking sparkling water often. Choose normal water most of the time.

• Watch out for added sugar. When you do drink seltzer, opt for a sugar-free option. Sugar will only increase the acid—and therefore damage—in your mouth.

In summary, if sparkling water keeps you from drinking a soda, by all means, enjoy it. Just remember that seltzers still contain acid, which can damage your teeth. Water is the best option.

Looking for more ways to keep your teeth healthy and strong? Give them a little love and schedule your next hygiene appointment. Or, if you have any dental questions or concerns, call our office to schedule a visit with your dentist. We’re always happy to help.