Sports drinks are used by both athletes and people who are ill and need to replace lost electrolytes to stay hydrated. Despite the advantages of hydration, a growing number of family dentists are cautioning against the regular consumption of sports drinks, especially by young children. Tukwila dentist can help!
In the early 1900s, the precursor to sports drinks was sugar water with a citrus flavor. With the popularity of sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade, electrolytes such as calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and phosphate were added.
The Drawbacks of Sports Drinks:
Sports beverages are frequently consumed during sports or other rigorous activities, but there are some drawbacks that everyone should be aware of.
- Contains Sugar
It is common knowledge that sports beverages are advertised as having less sugar than soda cans. However, the truth is they still have a lot of simple sugars in them. These sugars encourage bacterial development on the tooth’s surface, which leads to tooth decay.
- Highly Acidic
Sports drinks are well recognized for being extremely acidic, which can erode tooth enamel. Acids have the ability to erode the protective layer all the way to the dentin, leading to tooth decay and, ultimately, tooth loss.
- Teeth Form Marks
Sports beverages frequently leave marks or spots on the surface of the teeth. Consuming sports drinks, which are acidic, can erode tooth enamel and cause stains from colors.
- Teeth Develop Sensitivity
Sensitivity can result from acidity-related enamel damage, particularly that found with the ingestion of sports drinks. This sensation can be triggered by both hot and cold beverages and highly sweetened beverages.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth:
There are certain preventative steps you can take to safeguard the well-being of your teeth if you or your kids frequently drink sports drinks along with other sugary beverages.
- Maintain a Precautionary Schedule
After ingesting a sports drink, it is advised to brush your teeth or rinse with water to safeguard your teeth and the oral cavity.
- Sports Beverages with Less Sugar and Acid Should Be Consumed
Sports drinks with lower sugar and acidity content are now on the market as a result of consumer protest. If not entirely avoided, consumption of these beverages in any form containing artificial sweeteners should be limited.
- Other Energy Fluids to Consume
By mixing electrolytes with water, sports beverages can be transformed into a more “healthy version.” Electrolytes come in several flavors and are individually packaged without extra sugar.
