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Water is always a choice. Water keeps your whole body healthy. Water cleans your teeth, and most water contains fluoride, and fluoride is extremely beneficial to dental health. But when you drink sparkling water, water that has an added carbonation to add a fizz—an added something that provides a satisfying feel similar to drinking soda—does that added carbonation and acidity affect your dental health? In particular does it harm the enamel? (Remember that enamel is the hard outer-covering on the tooth).

According to research, enamel is not overtly affected by the acidity of sparkling water. In fact, researchers found that sparkling water doesn’t have any more negative effects on tooth enamel than regular water. But, one thing not included in the study is the addition of flavorings into the sparkling water. For instance, many acidic flavorings are added to sparkling water—grapefruit and lime to name just a few—and these flavorings do have higher levels of acidity, which then do have a negative impact on tooth enamel. That doesn’t mean you have to stay clear of all flavored drinks. Soda pop, even diet soda, is especially hard on teeth and many flavored waters are much better for your mouth—and for your entire bodily health—than sodas. Soda, unfortunately, is bad for our mouth, and waters that have sugar added—these are supposed to be labeled sweetened waters (still make sure to check the label to be sure there’s no sugars added)—are equally as bad. Remember, drink plenty of plain water, because it has so many great benefits for bodily health. If you wish to drink a sparkling water, or even to indulge in a sugary drink (although it would be better to eliminate sugary drinks all together) then indulge in them sparingly. Try to have one with a meal, or at a snack time; try not to get into the habit of drinking carbonated waters all day long.

It may be time to book that next appointment at Premier Smile! Remember that regular trip to the dentist’s office is a part of practicing good oral health.