If you’re a parent of an athlete, you may pat yourself on the back every time you remember to pack a sports drink in your child’s bag for practice or a game. However, you may want to rethink that drink. When it comes to your child’s smile, sports drinks can be especially harmful. In fact, studies show that sports drinks are up to three times more harmful than sodas!
Why are sports drinks so bad? They are high in sugar and acidity, which is a deadly recipe for your pearly whites. More specifically, your tooth enamel is in danger when you sip or consume sports drinks consistently. Enamel is a hard, protective layer of your tooth. When acids, sugars and bacteria combine, they eat away at this outer enamel and the underlying dentin layer is more exposed.
Enamel erosion caused by sports drinks can cause or contribute to the following dental concerns in children and teens:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Tooth sensitivity
- Discoloration
If you want to make sure your child is hydrated during sports, go ahead and pack some H20. Water is the safest for their teeth and the fastest way to hydrate an active athlete. If your child prefers the sports drink, try to encourage him or her to drink it all at once and rinse with water afterwards. Sipping on a sports or energy drink throughout the day can cause even more harm.
Salt Run Family Dentistry
St. Augustine, FL 32080
(904) 924-3540