Oral Health: Do Sports Drinks Cause Cavities?

Sports drinks are one of the worst things your child (or you) can consume for their oral health (or yours). Recently, it was found that just under 90% of pre-teens and young teens (12-14 years of age) consume sports drinks. Of this group, just under 70% of them admitted to drinking sports drinks anywhere from once per week to once per day. Unfortunately, the more of these drinks they consume, the greater risk their oral health is at.

What is a better drink alternative when exercising? As a dental professional, I highly recommended sticking to water (preferably tap water). Sports drinks are filled with sugars, syrups, and acids that assault your teeth while your drink, and long after you’re done, as well. Acid paired with sugar is especially dangerous as the acid softens and wears your enamel away while the sugars reach your teeth and cause cavities.

Unfortunately for dentists and children, the popularity of sports drinks is not in decline at all. Even more unfortunate that this is that sport drink companies specifically target teenagers as their primary market.

The biggest concern with consuming sports drinks is the tooth decay and cavities that it leads to. Don’t think tooth decay is a big deal? In a recent study in the U.K., it was found that tooth decay is the most common cause of child hospitalizations.

If you want your child’s oral health to improve, make sure they are not drinking sports drinks all the time. Preferably, try to make sure they are never drinking these beverages.

Looking to do more to fight cavities?

If you want your child to have even fewer cavities, and are in the Beachwood, OH area, feel free to schedule an appointment with Dr. Faist. Fluoride treatments, cleanings, and wellness visits will help to keep your children’s teeth healthy.