Are sports drinks that bad for your teeth? Surely, they have been developed with health and fitness in mind? The truth is that they are full of sugars and could be the worst option for your teen to drink. Here is all you need to know as a parent when it comes to your teen drinking sports drinks.

High in Sugar and Acid

The sports drinks are high in two elements that are the most harmful to the teeth: acid and sugar. They both wear away the enamel on the teeth, causing decay of the pulp. They can also lead to the gums receding, leading to the roots being exposed and damaged.

Your teens are better off drinking water. This is free from the two elements, offering more protection to the teeth.

Worse Than Sodas

Did you know that the sports drinks have been shown as being worse than sodas? 1800 Dentist reports that, over 25 hours, the sports drinks were the most corrosive to enamel and roots compared to apple juice, diet colas and even full sugar colas. The study determined sports drinks were even worse for your teen's teeth than energy drinks.

Dry Mouth Can't Help

If your teen has a dry mouth on a regular basis, the sports drinks will be even worse for their teeth. Saliva helps to remove acid and bacteria from the mouth. Without this, the bacteria remains connected to the teeth, causing more decay. It is best to encourage your teen to drink more water to protect against this problem.

Dry mouth can be a common problem with athletes, especially those who breathe through their mouths. This is something to factor in if your child is training and drinking multiple bottles throughout the week.

They Do Have Their Place

While they can be negative to the teeth, they do have their place. Teens who are training for athletic events may find that they help to add the electrolytes that sweating removes.  If your teen is only using the drinks during training, it is possible that they will not do too much damage. Regular tooth brushing and visits to the dentist will also help to limit the damage.

Sports drinks aren't the best option on the market. In fact, studies have shown they are the worst for the teeth. As a parent, you need to help your teen make the best option for their health—oral and overall. This will help protect them in the future. For more information, speak with your family dentist.

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