Still vs. Sparkling Water: Which One Should You Drink?
Posted on 5/9/2022 by Dr. David Wanserski |
 The American Dental Association (ADA) explains that sparkling water, although slightly acidic, is better than other beverages for your teeth. It's better than sports drinks, sodas, and juices. Also, it does not cause more acid erosion when compared to still water. You, therefore, may be wondering, should you drink still water or sparkling water?
Sparkling Water isn't Bad for Your Teeth
When you look at the available research, you find that sparkling water is considered generally fine for the teeth. The lack of sugar, added colors, kilojoules, and artificial flavors within sparkling water or plain soda water make it generally a healthier choice than most juices, soft drinks, and sports drinks. Soda water is simply water that has pressurized carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is added to give the water bubbles. Often, companies use sparkling water as a term referring to carbonated water – whether artificially or naturally carbonated - for example, carbonated mineral water and carbonated club soda and soda water.
But Here is the Catch!
Although still and sparkling water do not present any negative effects to the teeth, especially erosion of the enamel, you need to watch out for the ingredients in sparkling water. According to Dr. John Ruby, a professor of pediatric dentistry based at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, says that carbonation, in itself, does not lead to dental erosion. Often, dental erosion occurs when citric or phosphoric acids are added to your classic soft drink. The reason is that it causes the pH to get below the critical level of 4, where erosion occurs. Citrus-flavored water tends to contain higher concentrations of acid, which can increase the likelihood of damaging the enamel.
That being said, drinking bottled sparkling water makes you miss the benefits of fluoride. Fluoridated tap water is, therefore, a good choice if you are seeking fluoride for your teeth. Either way, talk to a dentist to find out more. Contact our prosthodontist today to learn more about tooth erosion and how it occurs.
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