According to Dr. Kunen, these are the top five seemingly healthy foods that put your pearly whites at risk, as well as the steps to take to protect your teeth. Healthier and more natural alcoholic options like hard seltzer have been hitting the market for both oral and general health. As far as alcoholic beverages go, sparkling seltzers (like White Claw) have relatively clean ingredients and a somewhat low sugar content. That said, according to Dr. Kunen, all carbonated beverages can decrease pH levels in the mouth. This creates a more acidic oral environment and makes enamel more vulnerable to wear and attack by bacteria. Additionally, all alcoholic drinks dry out the mouth, hindering an ideal salivary flow. This prevents a healthy stream of nutrients to oral tissues and makes teeth more vulnerable to cavities. To counteract the effects of these alcoholic drinks, stay hydrated while drinking (alternate a glass of water with each glass of alcohol) and rinse out your mouth with water after you drink. RELATED: You’re Probably Brushing Your Teeth Wrong—Try These Dentist-Approved Tips for a Better Smile “The best way to responsibly consume these beverages is to drink them quickly and rinse out your mouth afterward,” says Dr. Kunen. “And wait a few minutes before you brush your teeth, or any softened enamel will be removed from the tooth surfaces.” A simple rinse with water will adequately cleanse the mouth without hurting your teeth. “While I would never discourage kombucha altogether, the best way to enjoy it is to drink it quickly and to rinse thoroughly with water after you’re finished,” she says. This will help to restore a neutral pH. And again: Never brush your teeth right after consuming an acidic substance, as softened enamel will be brushed away. Rinse gently with water only. The best way to enjoy turmeric’s advantageous effects without staining your teeth is to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after you eat or drink anything that contains it. If you prefer to take vitamins in (an admittedly more delicious) gummy form, just remember to rinse your mouth after chewing them to remove the sticky sugar residue from tooth surfaces.
