In recent years, carbonated water has surged in popularity as a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks. With Australians becoming increasingly health-conscious, many have turned to sparkling water as a seemingly healthier option. But amidst this fizzy water trend, concerns have emerged about its potential impact on dental health. Let’s dive into the science behind carbonated beverages and their effects on your teeth.
Understanding Carbonated Water
Carbonated water, also known as sparkling water, soda water, or fizzy water, is essentially water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. This process creates the characteristic bubbles and effervescence that many find appealing.
There are several types of carbonated water available in the Australian market:
- Plain sparkling mineral water, which contains naturally occurring minerals
- Club soda, which typically has minerals added for flavour
- Seltzer water, which is simply carbonated water without additives
- Flavoured sparkling waters, which may contain natural or artificial flavourings
Unlike sugary soft drinks, plain carbonated water doesn’t contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners. However, the carbonation process itself creates carbonic acid, which is what raises questions about its impact on dental health.
The Acidity Factor
The primary concern with carbonated water is its acidity level. When carbon dioxide dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid, giving carbonated water a pH typically around 3-4, which is more acidic than regular water (with a neutral pH of 7).
Dental enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth, begins to demineralise at a pH below 5.5. This demineralisation can potentially lead to enamel erosion over time, making teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity and decay.
However, it’s important to note that plain carbonated water is significantly less acidic than many other beverages. For comparison:
- Cola soft drinks often have a pH around 2.5
- Orange juice typically has a pH of about 3.5
- Black coffee usually registers around 5.0
- Plain water has a neutral pH of 7.0
What Research Tells Us
Scientific studies on carbonated water’s specific effects on teeth have produced nuanced results.
A laboratory study published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation examined various beverages and found that while sparkling water is more erosive than still water, it is far less erosive than sugary soft drinks or even fruit juices.
Research from the University of Birmingham found that the erosive potential of carbonated waters is relatively low compared to other acidic drinks, especially when consumed in moderation.
The Australian Dental Association acknowledges that plain sparkling water poses minimal risk to dental health for most people, particularly compared to sugary or citrus-flavoured beverages.
It’s worth noting that most research indicates that flavoured sparkling waters, especially those with citrus additives, have higher acidity levels than plain carbonated water and therefore pose a greater risk to enamel.
Factors That Influence Risk
Several factors determine how carbonated water might affect your dental health:
Frequency and Method of Consumption
The frequency of consumption and how you drink carbonated water matter significantly. Sipping sparkling water throughout the day creates prolonged acid exposure for your teeth compared to drinking it quickly with meals.
Additional Ingredients
Many commercial carbonated waters contain additives that can increase their erosive potential:
- Citrus flavours (like lemon or lime) increase acidity
- Added sugars contribute to tooth decay
- Certain preservatives may affect pH levels
Always check the label of flavoured sparkling waters, as they often contain acids like citric acid that are more harmful to teeth than the carbonic acid in plain sparkling water.
Individual Dental Health
Your personal dental health profile influences how vulnerable your teeth are to acid exposure:
- Those with already thinned enamel may be more susceptible to further erosion
- People with dry mouth conditions have less protective saliva
- Individuals with acid reflux may already have enamel challenges
Minimising Potential Risks
If you enjoy carbonated water but are concerned about your dental health, consider these practical tips:
Consumption Habits
- Drink carbonated water with meals rather than sipping it throughout the day
- Use a straw to direct the liquid past your teeth
- Rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking carbonated beverages
- Avoid swishing carbonated water around in your mouth
Timing Considerations
- Wait at least 30 minutes after consuming carbonated water before brushing your teeth, as brushing immediately after acid exposure can damage temporarily softened enamel
- Consider consuming carbonated water during specific times of day rather than continuously
Protective Measures
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste
- Use a fluoride mouthwash to help remineralise enamel and prevent stains
- Stay hydrated with regular water, which helps maintain saliva production
- Consider calcium supplements if recommended by your healthcare provider, as calcium helps strengthen teeth
The Verdict
For most people, plain carbonated water poses minimal risk to dental health when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet and good oral hygiene routine, unlike after dental treatment when special care is needed. If you have specific dental concerns, such as enamel erosion, sensitive teeth, or dry mouth, it’s worth discussing your carbonated water consumption with your dentist for personalised advice.
Remember that maintaining good overall oral hygiene practices, regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups remains the most important factor in preserving your dental health and preventing fillings, regardless of your beverage choices.
