Orthodontic hardware fundamentally changes how liquids interact with teeth. Brackets, wires, and rubber bands create numerous surfaces where substances from beverages become trapped and linger, making thorough cleaning significantly challenging. Sugars and acids are not easily washed away by saliva, allowing them to pool around the appliances. This prolonged exposure puts the adhesive components, metal, and delicate tooth structure at risk.
Beverages That Promote Tooth Decay
The most significant threat is the combined attack of sugar and acid on the enamel. Sugary drinks, such as regular sodas, feed oral bacteria which metabolize the sugar and release acid as a byproduct. This creates a constant acidic environment around the braces, contributing to demineralization and weakening the tooth’s surface.
Beverages that are inherently acidic, even those without sugar like diet sodas, directly erode the enamel. Enamel begins to dissolve when the surrounding pH drops below 5.5. Many popular drinks, including colas, sports drinks, and processed fruit juices, register a pH far below this threshold. This high acidity strips away protective minerals, making the tooth surface porous and vulnerable.
When acid erosion and sugar-fed bacteria work together, the risk of localized damage around the brackets escalates dramatically. This damage often manifests as white spots, or decalcification, which are permanent scars visible only after the braces are removed. Citric acid drinks, such as lemonade and orange juice, are problematic because the tight spaces around the hardware keep the acid in contact with the tooth for longer.
Liquids That Cause Discoloration
Beyond health concerns, certain drinks cause aesthetic problems during orthodontic treatment. Beverages containing dark, concentrated pigments easily stain the clear or light-colored elastic ties, known as ligatures, that hold the archwire to the brackets. Since these elastics are highly absorbent, repeated exposure to dark liquids can cause them to turn yellow or brown between appointments.
Liquids such as coffee, dark teas, and red wine are primary culprits for staining due to their chromogen content. Dark-colored sodas also contribute to the discoloration of the elastics and the adhesive material. While the metal or ceramic brackets themselves resist staining, the discoloration of the surrounding elastics makes the entire appliance appear unclean or poorly maintained. Highly pigmented artificial fruit drinks and punches can also deposit color onto the orthodontic components.
Safe and Recommended Drink Choices
The simplest and safest choice is plain water, as it is pH neutral and contains no sugars. Milk is also beneficial because its calcium content helps remineralize enamel, and its near-neutral pH counteracts acid. Unsweetened, plain herbal or green teas are acceptable alternatives.
If an acidic or sugary drink is consumed, mitigation techniques can reduce harm. Using a straw helps direct the liquid past the front teeth and brackets, minimizing contact. Immediately rinse the mouth thoroughly with plain water to wash away sugars and neutralize residual acids. Avoid brushing immediately after drinking an acidic beverage; waiting at least 30 minutes allows the temporarily softened enamel to re-harden.