15 Beverages which dissolve your enamel

March 29, 2022

Enamel is the hard, protective layer making up the outermost portion of the teeth. The enamel is a hydroxyapatite crystal structure mostly comprised of the mineral calcium phosphate. The surface of the enamel is 96 percent mineral. This makes the enamel the hardest substance in the human body—even stronger than bone. It is durable and damage-resistant. However, it is not indestructible. Anyone who has ever suffered from a cavity can attest to that. With time, use, and exposure to acid, the enamel can weaken. And unfortunately, dental erosion is not a rare condition. Here are 20 common beverages that dissolve the enamel:

1. Wine

When it comes to wine, white wine is more acidic than red wine and more likely to dissolve the enamel. That said, red wine is highly pigmented and is likely to cause dental stains. Ultimately, neither type is really good for your teeth.

2. Vodka

Some premium vodkas tend to have a pH closer to 8, but less expensive brands of vodkas have an average pH around 4, which is more acidic. And while liquors have a wide range of pH levels, most still have a drying effect on the mouth. And because saliva is a natural defense for the teeth, moderate to excessive drinking isn’t good for health or teeth.

3. Mimosas

Alcohol, acid, and sugar? These popular beverages are a triple threat against the enamel. And because mimosas are the type of drink people sit and sip, it means the teeth have prolonged exposure to the harmful substances for even more dissolution.

4. Sparkling Water

This beverage may seem innocuous, but looks are deceiving. Studies show most sparkling waters have a pH level between 2.7 and 3.3, making them highly acidic. In fact, sparking water has more erosive potential than orange juice.

5. Cola Soft Drinks

Soft drinks can do a number on the enamel, even the sugar-free varieties. In fact, studies show there is very little difference between diet and regular colas when it comes to enamel dissolution.

6. Non-Cola Soft Drinks
Non-cola beverages are even worse than cola. IN fact, studies show that non-cola drinks can cause 3 to 11 times more damage to the enamel than cola drinks.

7. Sports Drinks

Choosing a sports drink over a soda doesn’t necessarily mean it is a healthier choice. Sports drinks contain a lot of citric acid and sugars. These drinks may seem beneficial but will do more damage to the teeth than you might think.

8. Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are increasing in popularity, but they are also harmful to teeth. Again, these drinks are full of acids and sugars that wear down the enamel. Also, they can run the body down making it more difficult to fight off any bacteria that may attack the enamel and soft tissues of the mouth.

9. Kombucha

This is another popular drink that is gaining ground due to the potential health benefits. Kombucha is a probiotic-packed drink. But it is created with apple cider vinegar—a highly acidic substance that can lead to dental erosion.

10. Lemonade

Commercial lemonade is one of the most aggressive beverages when it comes to the dissolution of the dental enamel. The acid combined with the sugars at concentrated levels is a terrible combination for anyone looking to preserve their enamel.

11. Fruit Punch

Don’t be fooled by the name. There is little to no fruit juice in these beverages. They are usually just combinations of sugar and high fructose corn syrup masquerading as fruit. The pH of most fruit punch beverages is below 3 and the added sugar only worsens the effects on dental health.

12. Coffee

This isn’t entirely true. Coffee alone often causes dental stains but does very little to dissolve the enamel. In fact, coffee on its own has antioxidants that are beneficial to oral health. The rub comes with all the additives in coffee. Flavoring and sweeteners will increase the amount of sugar and will often lead to decay—especially if coffee is part of a daily routine.

13. Iced Tea

Most brewed teas have a pH above 5.5, which is more alkaline and in a safe zone for the enamel. But iced teas often have a lower pH in the range between 2.5 and 3.5. These beverages are often loaded with sugar as well and some iced teas end up being worse for the enamel than some sodas.

14. Fruit Juice

These may seem like a healthy option, but most fruit juices people purchase at the store are concentrated. This means they also contain a lot more acid than the fruit in its natural form. Orange juice and grapefruit juice are especially potent, with pH levels as low as 2.8. Juicing natural fruits and veggies in the home is a far better option for people who want to save their enamel.

15. Pickle Juice

Vinegar is vital for pickled foods. And not only will drinking pickle juice cause dental erosion, but it will also result in terrible breath. 

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