After a good workout, many people like to drink sports drinks or energy drinks such as Gatorade, Powerade, Monster or Red Bull. Be wary of drinking these too often though, these drinks can damage your tooth enamel, putting you at greater risk of cavities. These drinks are popular among younger patients.
In a study, researchers analyzed the fluoride content and pH levels of sports and energy drinks by soaking tooth enamel samples in them. The samples were soaked for 15 mins in the drinks and then for 2 hours in artificial saliva. Researchers found that energy drinks cause 2 times more enamel loss than sports drinks but both are bad for your teeth.
While it is important to replenish your body of nutrients after a good working, if not consumed carefully, the sugar in these drinks can cause cavities. As a precaution, remember to rinse your mouth out with water after you drink sports or energy drinks. Do not brush immediately after either, the acid in the drinks can soften enamel and make it easier to brush off. It takes at least 30 minutes for your mouth to bring the pH levels back to normal so wait about an hour before brushing! And don’t forget to floss!
