Drinking root beer while undergoing orthodontic treatment is strongly discouraged by dental professionals. While technically possible to consume, doing so poses significant, avoidable risks to the long-term health of the teeth and the aesthetics of the appliance. These dangers stem from the beverage’s high sugar content, its inherent acidity, and physical characteristics that compromise the integrity and cleanliness of the braces.
The Chemical Threat: Acid, Sugar, and Demineralization
The most serious long-term danger posed by root beer to a braced smile is chemical erosion. The sugar present in the beverage (around 40 to 45 grams in a standard 12-ounce serving) serves as fuel for oral bacteria. These bacteria metabolize the sugars and produce acidic byproducts that immediately start to dissolve the minerals that make up tooth enamel.
Root beer, like nearly all sodas, contains acids, giving it a low pH, typically ranging from 4.0 to 4.7. This acidity initiates a direct chemical attack on the enamel, as demineralization begins when the pH drops below 5.5. The orthodontic brackets and wires create small, shielded areas where plaque naturally accumulates and where a toothbrush has difficulty reaching.
When soda is consumed, the sugary and acidic liquid pools around the edges of the brackets, extending the duration of the acid attack on the underlying enamel. Repeated, prolonged acid exposure in these hard-to-clean spots causes demineralization, which appears as chalky white spots on the tooth surface. These white lesions are permanent damage to the enamel that become visible once the braces are removed, highlighting the outline of where the bracket once sat.
Physical Damage and Staining Risks
Beyond the chemical threat, root beer presents immediate physical and aesthetic concerns for the orthodontic appliance. The dark brown coloring of the soda can quickly stain the elastic ligatures, which are the small rubber bands securing the archwire to the bracket. These elastic ties are highly susceptible to absorbing pigments from dark beverages, leading to a noticeable, discolored appearance.
Even if the metal brackets do not stain, the surrounding ligatures and the composite cement used for bonding can absorb color. Staining can occur after only a few exposures, leading to an unwanted appearance that remains until the ligatures are replaced at the next adjustment appointment. For patients who choose clear or light-colored ligatures for aesthetic reasons, the discoloration is particularly noticeable.
The beverage’s inherent stickiness leaves a sugary residue on the brackets and wires that is difficult to remove completely. Patients often exert more force while brushing or flossing to dislodge this sticky layer, increasing the risk of physical damage. Applying excessive force can inadvertently lead to the bending of the delicate archwire or cause the bracket to detach entirely from the tooth surface.
Root Beer Compared to Other Sodas
Root beer is sometimes mistakenly viewed as a less harmful option than popular colas or citrus-flavored sodas. This perception often arises because many varieties are non-caffeinated, leading some to assume they are gentler on the teeth. However, the presence of caffeine is irrelevant when assessing the risk to braced teeth; the sugar and acid content are the primary metrics for dental damage.
A typical serving of root beer contains a high amount of sugar, comparable to or sometimes exceeding other soft drinks. While the acid level (pH 4.0–4.7) can be marginally higher than some colas, it is still far below the neutral pH of water and remains highly erosive to enamel. The difference in pH is not enough to negate the damage caused by the constant presence of braces, which trap the liquid against the tooth.
The dark color of root beer makes the staining risk identical to that of cola, ensuring it is no safer for the aesthetic components of the braces. Ultimately, while root beer may be slightly less acidic than some citrus sodas, the combination of high sugar, significant acidity, and dark pigment presents the same severe risks to orthodontic patients as any other sugary, carbonated beverage.
Strategies for Minimizing Risk and Safer Substitutes
For those who choose to consume root beer despite the known risks, certain strategies can help minimize the duration and severity of the chemical and physical attacks. Drinking the soda quickly, rather than sipping it over an extended period, limits the contact time between the liquid and the tooth surfaces. Using a straw can also help by directing the bulk of the liquid past the front teeth and brackets.
Immediately after consumption, rinse the mouth thoroughly with plain water to wash away residual sugars and dilute the acidic environment. This action helps quickly raise the pH level back toward neutral, halting the demineralization process. Patients should also avoid brushing immediately after consuming an acidic drink, as the acids temporarily soften the enamel surface.
Timing and Brushing
Brushing too soon can cause mechanical erosion of the softened enamel structure. Patients should wait approximately 30 minutes after rinsing with water before using a toothbrush.
Safer Substitutes
The safest approach involves choosing alternatives that eliminate the acid and sugar combination entirely. Plain water is the optimal choice for hydration. Milk is beneficial as it contains calcium and phosphate, which can help remineralize teeth. Other excellent substitutes include unsweetened tea or unflavored sparkling water, which satisfy the craving for a cold drink without damaging the enamel or the appliance.