Some people believe that sugar-free energy drinks are not as harmful as sugar-filled fizzy drinks, but this may not be the case.
Sugar free energy drinks still contain acid and it is the acid in the drinks causes the pH of the mouth to lower considerably. It takes around 30 minutes for the saliva to neutralise this acid and return the pH back to normal. For those 30 minutes your teeth are essentially being bathed in an acidic environment.
When the pH of the mouth is lowered it can cause the enamel (protective covering of your tooth) to break down. As the enamel breaks down, it can no longer protect the softer parts of the teeth or prevent bacteria in the mouth from causing damage and the gums become more susceptible to damage.
They can start to recede and expose the tooth roots which can cause the gums to bleed and become inflamed, showing early signs of gum disease.
Use a straw! Although we do not recommend drinking energy drinks regularly, if you are going to drink them occasionally, try drinking through a straw to minimise your teeth’s exposure to the acid in the drinks.
You could also rinse your mouth out with water after finishing your drink to try to neutralise the acidity in your mouth.
Try not to sip your drink. The longer it takes you to drink your energy drink, the less time your teeth have to repair themselves from the acid attack.
A few simple lifestyle changes could help to boost your energy.
