Hard seltzer has become a popular drink for many Americans. Not quite beer, it’s an alcoholic beverage that comes in many fruity flavors as an alternative to beer, wine, or spirits.
In today’s blog, our dentists talk about hard seltzer and whether or not it’s bad for your teeth.
What is hard seltzer made of?
Typical hard seltzers are made from fermented cane sugar to give it an alcohol content of anywhere from 4 to 6 percent alcohol by volume.
Then, brewers may add some sweet and fruity flavorings to the hard seltzer as it ferments over time.
Is hard seltzer bad for my teeth?
Yes, it can be due to a few factors.
As with any alcoholic drink, it depends on how many you consume, how often, and the brand of hard seltzer.
Why is hard seltzer bad for my teeth?
Two main reasons: carbonation and sugar.
The carbonation of hard seltzer comes from carbon dioxide and water. This mixture creates carbonic acid, which is a weak acid that can gradually wear away the enamel of your teeth. Natural fruit flavorings can increase the acidity of the hard seltzer, making it worse for your teeth.
The sugar content of hard seltzer also comes into play. Sugar feeds bacteria in your mouth. Once the bacteria grow, one of the byproducts of the growth is an acid that gradually wears away the enamel of your teeth.
Further, both carbonic acid and sugar can make it harder for your body to absorb nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorous that help your teeth stay strong.
Is alcohol bad for my teeth in general?
Regular alcohol consumption can cause dry mouth, which can make it harder for you to brush your teeth and keep your teeth cleaner.
Where can I find a dentist in Springfield, Missouri?
Contact Parkcrest Dental or call (417) 887-1220 for more information or to make an appointment with us. Our staff can help you if you or someone in your family needs help with oral hygiene or dental treatment.
Our staff can recommend good oral hygiene habits for you to practice at home while helping you to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
