You care about your health and maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups. But did you know that what you drink could damage your dental fillings and crowns? It’s easy to overlook how beverages affect our dental health. Certain drinks, from your morning cup of coffee to that refreshing soda during lunch, can wreak havoc on your dental restorations without realizing it.
At Journal Square Dental in Jersey City, our dental professionals are committed to ensuring your smile lasts a lifetime. We know how important it is for our patients to feel confident and comfortable with their dental care, so we provide expert guidance on maintaining fillings and crowns. By understanding which drinks are harmful and how to care for your dental work, you can protect your smile for years.
What Drinks Can Harm Fillings and Crowns?
Dental fillings and crowns are durable, but they aren’t invincible. Certain beverages can break down the materials used in these dental restorations, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
Acidic Beverages
One of the biggest threats to dental work comes from acidic drinks. These beverages can erode the surface of fillings and crowns, making them more vulnerable to decay. Acidic drinks include:
- Carbonated sodas
- Citrus juices
- Energy drinks
When acidic drinks come into contact with your dental work, they can weaken the bonding material that holds your crown or filling in place.
Sugary Beverages
Sugary drinks are another primary culprit in damaging dental restorations. When sugar fuses with bacteria in your mouth, it produces acid, which can attack your natural teeth and any dental work you’ve done. Drinks high in sugar include:
- Flavored coffee beverages
- Sodas
- Sports drinks
- Sweetened teas
Even if these drinks aren’t highly acidic, their sugar can produce a breeding ground for bacteria.
Why Are Hot and Cold Beverages a Concern?
While it might seem harmless to sip hot coffee or cold iced tea, extreme temperatures can negatively impact dental restorations. Sudden temperature changes can cause fillings and crowns to expand or contract, leading to cracks or loosening.
Hot Beverages
Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate may cause your dental crowns or fillings to expand slightly. This continual expansion and contraction can wear down the bond between the filling or crown and your tooth, increasing the risk of loosening.
Cold Beverages
Similarly, cold drinks like iced tea or smoothies can cause your fillings and crowns to contract. This contraction, paired with the freezing temperature, can lead to sensitivity and possible damage to your dental work. It’s essential to avoid consuming icy drinks immediately after having a new crown or filling placed, as the restoration needs time to set fully.
What Are Healthier Drink Alternatives for Protecting Your Dental Work?
Fortunately, many tooth-friendly drinks can help you maintain healthy fillings and crowns. Here are some options:
- Water: The best choice for maintaining your dental work, water helps wash away food particles, bacteria, and acids that can lead to damage
- Milk: Rich in calcium and helps strengthen both your natural teeth and dental restorations, milk also has a neutral pH, which means it won’t harm your fillings or crowns
- Herbal teas: A great alternative to sugary or caffeinated drinks, herbal teas are low in acidity and can even provide additional health benefits, like promoting relaxation and hydration
By choosing these healthier alternatives, you can enjoy refreshing beverages while protecting the longevity of your dental work.
Check Your Dental Health With an Appointment From a Skilled Jersey City Dentist Today
Maintaining dental crowns and fillings is crucial for a long-lasting, healthy smile. At Journal Square Dental, our skilled team is here to help you make the best choices for your oral health. Avoiding damaging drinks and following our care instructions ensures your dental work stays in shape.
Learn more about how we can help you protect your dental fillings and crowns and call us at (201) 431-0288 or book an appointment online today. Let our team provide you with the personalized care you deserve!
