June 20, 2007

Did you know drinking bottled water exclusively may have a negative effect on oral health? That’s because many brands don’t contain fluoride, a compound that’s commonly added to municipal tap water to prevent tooth decay. But bottled water’s not the only culprit; those heavily advertised sports beverages and soft drinks should be viewed with a critical eye, too.

Follow the advice below when choosing beverages to ensure proper oral health.

Bottled Water

The American Dental Association is concerned about the nation’s decreasing consumption of tap water because it contains fluoride, a compound that’s highly effective in fighting tooth decay.

Unfortunately, many familiar brands of bottled water contain zero fluoride, which may affect the long-term oral health of you and your children. Be sure to check the fluoride content of your bottled water and ask your dentist how much fluoride you and your family need for good dental health.

Sports Drinks

Because of their high sugar and acid content, some of these drinks may contribute to tooth decay and mineral loss in your teeth’s enamel. Follow these tips for added protection:

• Limit consumption of sports drinks.
• Dilute sports drinks with water.
• Chill your drinks (warmer temperatures speed tooth erosion).
• Don’t hold or swish drinks in your mouth. Use a straw to reduce contact with teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water after drinking to counter the strength of the drink’s acidity.
• Chew sugarless gum after a drink to stimulate saliva.
• And ask your dentist to check for early signs of decay, such as white spots, stained fissures and brown spots.

Soft Drinks

Like sports drinks, soft drinks have a high sugar and acid content, and their consumption should be limited as well. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce an acid that dissolves tooth enamel and could eventually lead to cavities. Even sugar-free diet sodas are not entirely safe, because they are acidic by nature.

Dental Plans Offered at E.ON U.S.

E.ON U.S. offers two dental plans through Delta Dental of Kentucky. Diagnostic and preventive care — such as oral exams, X-rays and teeth cleaning — are fully covered under both plans. In addition, members are allowed two doctor visits per year. Click the link above for more information about the advantages your plan offers.

Members may also call Delta Dental at 1-800-955-2030 or visit http://www.deltadentalky.com/ to learn more or find a dentist in your area. You may be especially interested in the site’s Oral Health & Wellness section, which offers useful information on dental care topics, dental specialties and dental terms.