Can You Drink Soda With Braces?

Did you just get your new braces to straighten your crooked teeth? Hot weather might tempt you to sip on some cold soda, but at the same time, you might wonder if it is the right choice. When you are undergoing this orthodontic treatment, you might need to give up certain beverages.
Read this blog to learn if you can have soda without damaging your orthodontic device in the process.
Why Can Soda Be Troublesome?
Soda is more than a cold drink; it’s a cocktail of harmful sugars and acids. Here’s why they can be dangerous for your braces:
- Sugar in soda can feed the bacteria in your mouth, resulting in plaque formation. Plaque, trapped around an orthodontic device, can cause tooth decay and discoloration.
- The acid content in soda can soften your tooth enamel, leaving your teeth more susceptible to cavities. If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, this erosion is even more significant.
- Colored sodas can stain both your teeth and the brackets of your braces or invisalign in Morrisville, leaving stubborn stains behind on your teeth.
Can You Still Have Soda?
Are you worried that soda might be completely forbidden for you? Well, that is definitely not the case. Here are some tips for reducing the damage to your orthodontic device:
- Limit how frequently you consume this sugary and acidic drink. Consume them in moderation to avoid damaging your ongoing treatment.
- Drinking them through a straw reduces contact between soda and teeth, minimizing the damage.
- Swish water around your mouth after having these drinks to wash out sugar and acid residues.
- Give special attention to brushing after having soda to remove any lingering sugar and acid particles.
What Are Some Tasty Alternatives to Soda?
If you are committed to taking care of your braces and teeth, you can consider substituting sodas with these healthier alternatives:
- Water is the ultimate tooth-safe drink that quenches your thirst without adding any extra sugar to your system.
- Unsweetened tea can be a delicious substitute that’s kind to your teeth.
- Sparkling Water can satisfy your thirst for carbonated drinks with no added sugar or flavorings.
The Role of Braces in Oral Health
These are meant to enhance oral health in the long term. However, you must properly care for them. Irresponsible consumption of soda can create complications such as cavities or extended treatment durations. Ignoring good oral hygiene while having soda can lead to:
- Permanent spots on your teeth due to decalcification.
- Acid from these beverages can soften the adhesive that secures your brackets.
- A poor oral health routine can make the treatment time unnecessarily long and also affect the outcomes.
Ultimately, how you consume soda with braces is completely your personal responsibility. Knowing the risks and taking preventive measures allows you to have the occasional treat without risking your orthodontic process.
Soda isn’t necessarily the best choice for people undergoing orthodontic procedures, but it also does not mean that you can never have it ever again. Moderation is essential. Practice good oral hygiene to keep your smile in check.
Are you searching for more professional advice? Contact us for a consultation.
