Is Flavored Water as Healthy as It Seems?

Sugary beverages like juice and soda are notorious health risks. As consumers are becoming more and more concerned about the negative effects of treats like these, tasty and minimal alternatives are becoming more and more popular.

Flavored water is one such alternative. Since it contains fewer suspicious chemicals and more vitamins than their counterparts, it can be a good drink to enjoy while you try to curb a soda addiction. However, not everything is as it seems here. Ultimately, flavored water still poses a risk to your oral health and should be consumed with this in mind.

Is Flavored Water Actually Less Sugary?

The sugar content in flavored water depends on what you buy, similar to juice or soda. In general, fruity H2O is less sugary than other options, but artificial sweeteners can sneak into the mixture through high fructose corn syrup and other additives. Basically, it’s important to read the label and do the math to determine whether your chosen brand is actually healthier than juice or soda.

Any way you slice it, though, sugar will contribute to cavity risk by accelerating bacteria growth. Be sure to select a low- or zero-sugar water flavor, and brush twice daily to mitigate bacteria build up.

Acidic Fruits Wear Down Enamel

Unfortunately, acidity is a harder factor to control. Carbonation and other chemicals make soda naturally acidic, but for water and juice the culprit might shock you: it’s fruit! Citrus flavors like orange, lemon, and lime are especially harsh on teeth. They can cause premature enamel erosion, resulting in dental sensitivity and increased risk of tooth decay.

Besides limiting your acidic drink intake to mitigate enamel erosion, you can drink through a straw and wait about ten to fifteen minutes before brushing. Straws reduce a liquid’s direct contact with your enamel, while waiting to brush prevents you from rubbing the acids deeper into your teeth.

Should I Still Drink Flavored Water?

Generally speaking, it’s usually better to drink plain water. However, with careful research, flavored water can be a useful tool. If you’re trying to break a soda addiction, for example, it could be worth it to lean on a low- or zero-sugar variety when you get a craving. And if you have trouble staying hydrated due to water’s minimalistic flavor, then it’s probably better to encourage regular H2O intake with a little pizzaz!

The main takeaway here is that if you’re going to drink flavored water, be diligent about checking the ingredients, and be mindful of how frequently you consume it. With a bit of caution and consistent oral hygiene, you can protect your teeth from the lesser-known effects of flavored water.

About the Dentist

Dr. Natalya Nagornaya earned her dental degree from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry, and is an active member of the American Dental Association. Between these credentials and over 15 years of experience in the field, you can trust Dr. Nagornaya to take care of you and your family’s oral health. If you have questions about flavored water consumption or cavities, call her office at 847-634-2525.