Are Energy Drinks Bad For Your Teeth?

The risks of drinking too many sweet drinks have been well-documented, but did you know that some popular sports and energy drinks can cause tooth decay? It's so easy to overlook this danger when it seems like we're all hooked on soda.

How Energy Drinks Affect Your Teeth

But, drinks such as energy drinks and coffee tend to be more acidic because they contain water with a pH balance close to neutral at about 7 (pH levels range from 0–14; lower numbers are increasingly acidic). In general, most liquids possess an equal level of acidity due, largely in part by the fact that they share water content that has a PH near neutrality. So what does it mean for these beverages when their drink is considered more highly on the acidic side, aka the energy drink?People who regularly enjoy energy drinks are just as, if not more, likely to experience tooth decay than those who consume just regular soda. In addition, energy drink consumption is more likely to exceed the recommended limit of consuming 2 liters a day. One ounce of energy drink contains about the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee, and because caffeine is acidic, it rapidly accelerates decay in the enamel of your teeth.

What Are Energy Drinks?

An energy drink is a beverage that typically contains large amounts of caffeine, added sugars, and other additives, as well as legal stimulants such as guarana.These compounds can have a harmful effect on the nervous system by increasing blood pressure and heart rate. They are often used to provide an extra boost in energy for students but their long-term effects should be considered before consumption becomes habitual behavior.There are several brands on the market currently and the industry is growing steadily into a multi-billion dollar industry with even popular soda companies getting in on the share.Because of the growth in sales and their recent addition to vending machines on college campuses, energy drinks are becoming an increasingly common trend among young adults.

Better Natural Energy Drinks

Caffeine dependency can be difficult, especially in a fast-paced world where caffeine is seen as a solution to everyday tiredness. But, there are alternatives that are natural, and less harmful to your smile, teeth, and gums.If you are looking for an energy boost and wish to protect your teeth, here are some good ways to get both:1.Tea - For a natural energy boost, try drinking green tea. Green tea has been used for thousands of years in the Far East to improve health and promote oral hygiene. Studies have proven that green tea is a good source of antioxidants that can protect your body against free radicals and combined with less acidity, tea makes for a great way to improve your mood. Furthermore, the tannin in tea helps combat jaw fatigue and strengthens your teeth. Green tea contains caffeine but it's less harmful to your teeth than coffee is. The high concentration of acidity in coffee weakens dental enamel so if you're tired and need an energy boost, opt for green or black tea instead!2.Smoothies - Green smoothies and juices are good for many reasons. They help you to stay focused, they provide an energy boost, but best of all is the Vitamin B that comes with them. You can also add supplements to them such as guarana for an additional energy ramp-up.3.Water - Sounds boring, but did you know that if you increase your water consumption and stay hydrated you will feel invigorated. Dehydration is an instant energy reducer. Feel free to add some lemon, or cucumber for better taste.