Sparkling water poses minimal risk to tooth enamel, researchers found in a new study examining how beverages alter mouth chemistry. The research tracked changes in salivary pH across different drinks to determine which posed the greatest erosion risk.
Soda caused the most dramatic and prolonged decrease in mouth acidity. Sparkling water produced only a brief dip in pH that saliva quickly restored to normal levels. Crucially, acidity from sparkling water never dropped below the threshold required for enamel damage.
The study classified drinks by their effects on tooth health. Sugary sodas emerged as the worst offender, combining both acidity and fermentable sugars that fuel cavity-causing bacteria. Sparkling water's temporary acidity presented a markedly different profile.
Saliva functions as the mouth's natural defense system, buffering acids through minerals and proteins. The researchers observed that saliva effectively counteracted the acidity from sparkling water within minutes. This biological protection mechanism did not overcome soda's sustained acid assault.
The work offers reassurance for consumers seeking carbonated beverages without sugar. Plain sparkling water contains no added sugars or sweeteners that damage teeth through two mechanisms. Soda simultaneously erodes enamel with acid while feeding decay-promoting bacteria.
However, the study carried limitations. The sample size was small, and researchers tested only a limited selection of beverages. Flavored sparkling waters, which often contain citric acid for taste, may behave differently than plain varieties. The study did not measure long-term effects or examine individual variation in saliva composition and buffering capacity.
Dentists typically recommend water as the healthiest option for dental health. If choosing between carbonated options, unsweetened sparkling water substantially outperforms sugary sodas. Consumers should avoid sipping sparkling water slowly throughout the day, which extends acid exposure.