The Best and Worst Summer Drinks for Your Teeth
It’s no secret that bathing your teeth in sugary drinks can lead to cavities. But in this season of piña coladas and mojitos, we wanted to know just how bad are our favorite summer refreshers? We asked Priyanka Patel, DMD, a general dentist in Chicago, to weigh in. Lemonade: This classic summer go-to for picnics, barbeques and kiddie entrepreneurs is problematic more for its high acidity than its sugar (though that’s trouble too). Lemons are the most acidic of all citrus fruits. “Acid can be more damaging than sugar, because it breaks down tooth enamel, making it easier for bacteria to come in,” says Dr. Patel. What’s more, lemonade made with preservatives tends to be high in sugar—up to 40 grams (that’s 10 teaspoons!) per serving—but if you make your own fresh batch, you can opt for a lighter touch. Dr. Patel also suggests flavoring water with lemon rind, sliced cucumber, or berries as a tooth-friendly alternative. Wine: All wines, especially r