Why Sports Drinks Put Teeth at Risk

Did you know that part of your exercise routine can actually be harmful? After you’ve finished hitting the pavement hard or taking that cycle to the next level, turning to that faithful sports drink buried in your gym bag can actually cause damage to your pearly whites! While most of us never consider our teeth while planning our workout, perhaps it’s time to start.

Sports drinks entered the market in 1987 with the invention of Gatorade, the popular drink originally created for collegiate sports teams at the University of Florida. After the drink’s initial impressions led to mass production, sports drinks of all types began to flood the market, becoming a staple in the average American’s workout kit. Sports drinks are useful for athletes and gym attendees by replacing fluids and electrolytes that are expelled from the body during strenuous motions.

While sports drinks do help to replenish the body, there is a largely overlooked downside to the trendy product:

The acidity in the drink can actually erode tooth enamel.

When tooth enamel is affected by eroding, those sparkling whites are subject to staining, discoloration, decay, and more. Tooth enamel is a clear, protective coating, which means the damage can go unnoticed for extensive periods of time. And it’s not just sports drinks posing a threat to your enamel – coffees, teas, sodas, and juices all contain traces of acids that can break down that precious coating.  Visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings can help in various ways to prevent or treat any damage. Don’t let those pearly whites turn sour – schedule your visit today.