So when we’re out I often see people choosing to drink soda water with a twist of lemon. It’s refreshingly light and bubbly, but it’s not great for your teeth.
Now don’t get me wrong – it’s a far healthier alternative to sugary soft drink or even fruit juices. My concern is that people may not realise that it’s still damaging to teeth. So why would this clear bubbly beverage pose any issues?
Dr Valence sheds some light on this otherwise healthy option.
Carbonated water gets its fizz from carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide gas dissolved in water at a low concentration (0.2–1.0%) creates carbonic acid (H2CO3)according to the following reaction:
H2O(l) + CO2(g) ⇌ H2CO3(aq)
CO2 not only gives drinks their delightful bubbles and a tangy, refreshing bite, but also makes even plain old water more acidic.
That’s where the potential for dental erosion comes in, because the acid in drinks and foods can wear away your tooth enamel. Sparkling water is far less acidic than orange juice or a soft drink, but you need to realise it’s still more acidic than plain water.
If you’re drinking sparkling water or throughout the day, sipping and swishing as you go, then you should be aware the damaging it’s causing. What’s worse is when you add a “health squeeze” of fresh citrus.
Beware that adding lime or lemon juice to your fizzy water then makes it even more acidic.
So what’s best? Hands down plain old still water is best.
Mineral or soda water is the next best and still much better than sugary soft drinks.