Can You Drink Soda With Braces? Occasionally consuming a soft drink like juice, soda, sports drinks, energy drinks or other sugary beverages can be enjoyable, but over-consumption of these highly acidic and sugary drinks not only can cause health problems but can also create permanent damage to your teeth. Drinking these types of beverages can especially be taxing for your teeth during orthodontic treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all soft drinks be avoided during your orthodontic treatment in order for your teeth to stay strong, healthy and free of decay.
Acid And Sugar Mean Double The Headache.
Soft drinks contain acids. Acid pulls calcium out of the enamel of your teeth which makes the tooth soft and dissolves enamel. This process is called “decalcification” and can lead to cavities and permanent staining. Once enamel dissolves, it does not come back. Not brushing away plaque regularly on your teeth during and after orthodontic care combined with the consumption of soft drinks will lead to a perfect storm of sugars and acids breaking down your teeth making them not as strong, healthy and beautiful as they could be if you avoided soft drinks and brushed regularly and properly.
White marks like these on teeth are a direct result of de-calcification, and are permanent. If you do not remove the plaque that collects around the brackets, between teeth and under the gums, de-calcification can be evident in as little as four months.
Liquids seep into aligners when you drink and the liquid is held against the teeth until the aligners are removed. If the liquid contains acid, the prolonged exposure accelerates damage to teeth. This can lead to extensive decay (pictured above, right) and the need for expensive restoration.
Are There Any Types Of Soda That Are Safe To Drink With Braces?
In short, most sodas are off-limits if you want to keep your braces in good shape and your teeth healthy. The high acidity and sugar content in soda can wreak havoc on your braces and teeth.
However, if you really can’t resist, there are a few things to consider. Opt for sodas that have lower sugar and acid levels. For example, some clear, sugar-free sodas might be a slightly better choice. Yet, even these can still cause enamel erosion, so moderation is key.
A helpful tip? Drink quickly and use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. And always, always rinse your mouth with water afterward to help wash away any residual acids or sugars.
It might sound tedious, but it’s a small price to pay for a dazzling smile once those braces come off!
How Can I Clean My Braces After Drinking Soda?
Keeping your braces clean after enjoying a soda is crucial to maintaining oral health. Simply put, soda’s sugars and acids can be tough on your braces and teeth. But don’t worry, it’s entirely manageable!
First, rinse your mouth with water right after drinking soda. This simple step helps wash away some of the sugar and acid, preventing them from clinging to your teeth and braces.
Next, try flossing using a water flosser or threading tool designed for braces. These tools can effectively remove any bits stuck around the brackets and wires. Flossing can make a world of difference!
Another tip: use an interdental brush. These small, bristly brushes can reach those tricky spots between braces that your toothbrush might miss. They’re particularly useful for dislodging any stubborn debris.
Of course, brushing your teeth remains paramount. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Aim to brush for at least two minutes, paying special attention to the spaces around your braces.
Finally, consider using a fluoride mouthwash. It can help strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay, especially after consuming acidic drinks like soda.
Forums
Thankfully, there are various forums where you can find more information, ask questions, and share experiences with others in the same situation.
- Reddit: r/braces – A dedicated subreddit where users discuss everything related to braces, from diet tips to personal experiences.
- ArchWired Braces Forum – A comprehensive forum covering a wide range of orthodontic topics, including the impact of drinking soda with braces.
- HealthBoards Braces & Orthodontics Board – A health-focused discussion board where you can ask questions and get advice from other braces wearers.
- BracesInfo.com Forum – Another great resource for finding tips and sharing your own braces journey.
Conclusion
- Avoid soft drinks as much as possible, especially during orthodontic treatment
- Drink things like milk and water
- Brush and floss regularly two to three times per day
- Use toothpaste with fluoride
- With aligners (Invisalign) treatment, be sure to remove aligners and brush both your teeth and the aligners if you drink soft beverages with the aligners in your mouth.
- See your dentist for cleanings every six months
Ready to take control of your orthodontic health? Schedule an appointment with Zaytoun Orthodontics in Raleigh, Garner, or Cary today. Our expert team is here to help you achieve a beautiful, confident smile!
I’ve been around orthodontics for as long as I can remember with my father opening Zaytoun Orthodontics in 1959. That upbringing of being around my father and watching him change lives through perfecting smiles helped guide me in figuring out what I wanted to do when I grew up, which was to be in the healthcare field. Orthodontics for over 30 years. Joining my father and sister was a thrill for me and something that sets us apart from other orthodontists.
