Sports drink companies market their products to busy parents and young athletes, but these beverages are generally not the best option. Even the most active children should drink water over sports drinks, especially for dental health. Here’s why sports drinks may harm your child’s teeth and why your dentist likely recommends water instead. 

Why Water Is Preferable to Sports Drinks

What Ingredients Are in Sports Drinks?

The main ingredients in sports drinks are sugar and electrolytes, such as sodium, chloride, and potassium. Sports drink companies design these products to replace the electrolytes that the body loses through perspiration while delivering calories quickly.

While each brand of sports drink has slightly different ingredients, the average 12-ounce bottle contains 21 grams of sugar. When consumed regularly, this amount of sugar can lead to tooth decay and other health issues. These drinks are also high in citric acid, which can weaken the enamel and encourage long-term tooth sensitivity. This is why your dentist will likely advise against these types of beverages. 

Why Is Water Better?

Parents should keep in mind that water is nearly always the best choice for youth athletes. Sports drinks can be beneficial for athletes who are completing high-intensity training for more than an hour at a time, which usually applies to triathletes or marathon runners.

Water can efficiently hydrate your child during sports games and practices. If you are concerned about replenishing sugar, electrolytes, and carbs, give them a piece of fruit as well. Skipping the sugary drinks will preserve your child’s oral health and save you the extra trips to the dentist to fill cavities. 

If you want to learn more about what drinks are best for your child’s teeth, see the team at Kennedy Dental Group in Anchorage, AK. Dr. Kerry Kennedy and his team serve families by offering general cleanings, tooth extractions, oral cancer screenings, fluoride treatments, and more. You can also talk to them about sports mouthguards and other ways to protect your active child’s teeth. You can visit them online to view a full list of their services, or call (907) 277-5684 to make an appointment.