Advertisements have successfully convinced many adults and kids that energy drinks will pump you up, and sports drinks will heighten your performance. They’ve been sold on the idea that these drinks are better for you than soda, and their popularity has skyrocketed. Not everyone is on the bandwagon, however, and one of the reasons is the possible negative affects on your teeth.

The main impact is a result of the high acidity levels in the drinks. Acid can erode your tooth enamel, which is the glossy outside layer of your teeth. Some studies go so far as to suggest that you are basically bathing your teeth with acid. Experts say that damage to tooth enamel can’t be reversed, and without a good layer of enamel your teeth will become sensitive and more likely to decay.

Researchers are still studying the effects of energy and sports drinks on your teeth. So far, studies haven’t consistently proven exactly what can happen. However, many experts suggest that since there is evidence that tooth damage may occur, it seems smart to heed the suggestions about how to minimize the effects of these drinks on your teeth.

Here are some suggested ways to reduce potential tooth damage:

• Cut down on your consumption of sports and energy drinks.
• Chew sugarless gum after drinking these items, because it will stimulate saliva production. Choose gum containing xylitol because it has been shown to protect tooth enamel.
• Rinse your mouth with water after consuming these types of drinks. This will help wash away residue from the drink, and also increase saliva production. Saliva flow naturally helps the acidity levels in your mouth to return to normal.
• Wait an hour after having these drinks before you brush your teeth. This will avoid spreading the acid onto the surfaces of your teeth and increasing the erosive action.

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