Is sparkling water bad for your teeth?

Approximately 32% of adults aged 15 and over have untreated tooth decay, while 26% of children aged 5-14 have at least one tooth with untreated decay, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. So it’s no wonder we’re conscious about the food and drinks we consume. 

If you drink sparkling water, have you been wondering if it’s a healthier alternative? Yes, it’s fizzy, but it doesn’t come with all the sugar of normal soft drinks, so is it bad for your teeth? 

The Practice, we’re all about helping our patients keep their smiles healthy through prevention-focused care, so we’re ready to get to the bottom of this commonly asked question. Here’s our advice, backed by our experience, with some practical takeaways you can implement into your daily life. 

What’s actually in sparkling water?

If you don’t know already, sparkling water is just water with carbon dioxide gas that creates carbonic acid. When it comes to acidity (which plays a factor in tooth decay), it has a pH level between 3 and 4, while plain water has a pH of 7. This means, while it doesn’t contain any sugar, it is higher in acidity than normal water, which is what can affect your tooth enamel. 

So, is it bad for your teeth?

So, to be straight up, no, it’s not as bad as soft drinks or juice, but it’s also not completely innocent. The acid in sparkling water can weaken enamel over time, especially if you’re drinking it a lot. 

Is flavoured sparkling water worse for your teeth?

Yes, many flavoured sparkling waters have added acids like citric acid, or even small amounts of sweetener, which increases enamel erosion even more. If you’re sipping these drinks daily, it’s worth checking the label for acidic additives or looking into their pH level. As a rule of thumb, the lower the pH, the higher the risk of erosion. Plain sparkling water is usually a safer option, especially when you drink it with meals.

How can I protect my teeth if I love drinking sparkling water?

If you really enjoy sparkling water and still want to protect your smile, there are a few simple ways to minimise the impact on your teeth.

1. Stick to plain sparkling water with no added flavours.
2. Don’t sip throughout the day, drink it in one sitting.
3. Rinse with water after or drink it alongside a meal.
4. Avoid brushing teeth immediately after drinking, wait 30 minutes.

Of course, regular dental check-ups (every 6 months) also help us catch early signs of enamel erosion before it becomes a problem. 

What does enamel erosion look like?

To identify enamel erosion, you need to look out for a few signs including, increased tooth sensitivity, yellowing, or rounded edges on teeth. However, it can be gradual, so it can be hard to notice without a dental exam from a dentist. At The Practice, checking for signs of enamel erosion is included as part of your regular dental check-up. 

Sparkling water and dental health

While it’s not necessary to stop drinking sparkling water completely, we do recommend enjoying it mindfully. An occasional glass won’t do any damage, especially if you have great dental hygiene. Moderation is always key, and regular dental check-ups are a must! 

Ready for your next check-up? Book your appointment at The Practice in West End today!