Most people understand that soda and energy drinks can be bad for their teeth, but there are many other common beverages that can wreak havoc on your dental health. These drinks can erode enamel, cause cavities, and lead to gum disease.

Understandably, many people are surprised to learn that some of their favorite drinks are on this list. Here are some of the worst offenders, and what you can do to mitigate the damage they cause.

Citrus Juices

While citrus juices like orange and grapefruit juice are packed with vitamin C, they are also some of the most acidic drinks you can consume. Acidic drinks can erode dental enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to cavities and decay.

If you can’t give up your daily glass of orange juice, try drinking it with a straw to limit the contact between the acidic juice and your teeth. Rinse your mouth out with water after you’re done drinking to help neutralize the acid, and wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth. Brushing immediately after consuming acidic drinks can cause even more damage to your enamel.

Coffee and Tea

Coffee and tea are both popular drinks that are acidic enough to cause damage to your teeth, especially if you add sugar or creamer. If you can’t give up your morning cup of joe, try drinking it black to reduce the acid content.

You should also avoid sipping on coffee or tea throughout the day, as this prolongs the exposure of your teeth to the acid. Finally, make sure to brush and floss regularly to help remove any staining or buildup caused by these drinks.

Sports Drinks

Sports drinks are marketed as a way to help athletes refuel and rehydrate after a tough workout. While they do contain electrolytes and necessary nutrients, they also contain high levels of sugar and acid.

While you may not think of sports drinks as a daily beverage, it’s important to be aware of the damage they can cause to your teeth. If you do drink sports drinks, try to limit your intake and rinse your mouth out with water after you’re done.

Acidic Carbonated Beverages

While many people think that the sugar in soda is the main culprit for tooth decay, carbonation and acid content can be equally damaging. The carbonation in sodas and energy drinks can weaken enamel, and the high acid content can dissolve it.

If you can’t give up soda or energy drinks completely, try to limit your intake and choose sugar-free options whenever possible. You should also rinse your mouth out with water after drinking them, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

Alcohol

Alcohol can be especially damaging to your teeth if it is consumed in large amounts or over a long period of time. Alcohol dehydrates your body and decreases saliva production, leading to dry mouth.

A lack of saliva can lead to an increase in bacteria and acid in your mouth, which can cause cavities and gum disease. If you do drink alcohol, try to do so in moderation, and make sure to drink water throughout the night to keep yourself hydrated. You should also be sure to brush and floss your teeth before going to bed.

Fruit Smoothies

Fruit smoothies are often thought of as a healthy drink option, but they can be deceivingly high in sugar. Drinking fruit juice removes the fiber from the fruit, leaving a sugary drink that can damage your teeth.

If you enjoy smoothies, try making them at home with whole fruits and vegetables. This will provide the necessary fiber, while still giving you the sweet and refreshing taste you love. You should also make sure to rinse your mouth out with water after you’re done drinking.

Milkshakes

Milkshakes are a delicious treat that can be especially damaging to your teeth. The sugar content in milkshakes is high, and the thick consistency can coat your teeth, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.

If you can’t resist the temptation of a milkshake, try drinking it quickly to limit the amount of time it spends in your mouth. You should also rinse your mouth out with water after you’re done, and brush your teeth as soon as possible.

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are known for their caffeine and sugar content, but they also contain high levels of acid. The acid content can weaken your tooth enamel, leaving you vulnerable to decay and cavities.

To reduce the damage caused by energy drinks, try to limit your intake and drink them through a straw to reduce the amount of contact the drink has with your teeth. You should also rinse your mouth out with water after you’re done, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

Iced Tea

Iced tea is a refreshing drink that can be especially damaging to your teeth. Like coffee and regular tea, it is acidic in nature. It can also be high in sugar, especially if you purchase it from a store or restaurant.

If you enjoy iced tea, try to make it at home using tea bags, and limit the amount of sugar or sweetener you add. You should also drink it through a straw to limit the amount of contact it has with your teeth.

Diet Soda

Many people think that diet soda is a safe alternative to regular soda, but this is not the case. While diet soda does not contain sugar, it still contains high levels of acid that can eat away at your tooth enamel.

If you can’t give up soda completely, try to limit your intake and drink it through a straw to reduce the amount of contact it has with your teeth. You should also rinse your mouth out with water after you’re done, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.