That refreshing fizz might be doing more to your teeth than you realise, especially if you're over 60. With tooth decay impacting between 19 and 24 teeth in Australian senior patients compared to just four in young adults, understanding how everyday choices like sparkling water affect your oral health has never been more important.
Dr Ben Atkins, a leading dental expert, doesn't mince words: 'Any drink with carbonation has a higher acid level' that can potentially weaken tooth enamel.
But before you pour that bottle of San Pellegrino down the sink, there's more to this story than meets the eye.
'Sparkling water is far better for your teeth than sugary drinks'
The Australian dental landscape for seniors
The statistics paint a sobering picture of oral health in older Australians. The number of Australians aged 65-74 with poor oral health rose by 26 per cent in 2017-18 from 18 per cent in 2004-06, while among elders aged 75 and over, it increased from 18 per cent to 23 per cent.
Even more concerning, untreated tooth decay cases rose from 22 per cent to 27 per cent for older Aussies during the same period.
This deterioration isn't just about ageing. Around 25 per cent of older Australians experience dry mouth (xerostomia). Saliva acts as the body's primary shield from tooth decay, but while saliva flow declines with age, causes may include medical conditions, medication side effects, and radiation therapies.
Insufficient saliva to neutralise the acids from plaque increases the risk of extensive decay among senior patients.
Senior-specific dental vulnerabilities
25 per cent of older Australians experience dry mouth
Medications can reduce protective saliva production
22 per cent avoid dental care due to cost barriers
Average 19-24 teeth affected by decay, missing, or filled
Only 56-59 per cent accessed dental clinics in 2017-18
The science behind sparkling water concerns
The worry about sparkling water centres on carbonic acid—the chemical reaction that creates those delightful bubbles. Sparkling water gets its fizz from carbon dioxide, which when dissolved in the liquid, forms carbonic acid. This is what gives sparkling water its characteristic sharp, bubbly taste.
Dr Praveen Sharma from the University of Birmingham explains the concern: 'Acidic drinks can be damaging to your teeth over time. The acid erodes enamel, the hard outer layer that protects your teeth. Once enamel is worn away, it doesn't grow back, and your teeth become more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity'.
However, Australian dental professionals emphasise context matters. The acidity of unflavoured sparkling water is far less than that of citrus juice or many sodas and sports drinks, and most dentists say the risks are minor.
What the research actually shows
Multiple studies provide reassurance for moderate sparkling water consumers. In a study using teeth that were removed as part of treatment and donated for research, researchers tested to see whether sparkling water would attack tooth enamel more aggressively than regular lab water.
The result is the two forms of water were about the same in their effects on tooth enamel. This finding suggests that, even though sparkling water is slightly more acidic than ordinary water, it's all just water to your teeth.
A Journal of the American Dental Association study found that many popular sports drinks were 'extremely erosive,' while most sparkling carbonated waters ranked as 'minimally erosive.'
The key distinction lies in the added ingredients. A review of multiple studies found that the combination of carbonation and sugar may lead to severe dental decay. In one study, carbonated beverages were found to destroy the enamel, but only if they contained sugar.
In fact, non-carbonated sweet drinks like Gatorade were more harmful than sugar-free carbonated beverages like Diet Coke.
The fluoride factor for Australians
Australia's approach to dental health includes community water fluoridation, which adds another layer to consider. Nationally, about 89 per cent of the population has access to a fluoridated drinking water supply, though in Queensland, approximately 72 per cent of the population has access to fluoridated drinking water.
Regular, fluoridated water is the best beverage for your teeth. Water with fluoride naturally helps fight cavities, washes away the leftover food cavity-causing bacteria feast on and keeps your mouth from becoming dry.
This means replacing all your regular water intake with sparkling water could potentially reduce your fluoride exposure, particularly important for seniors already at higher risk of decay.
Cost considerations for Australian seniors
The reality for many Australian seniors is that dental care costs create significant barriers. 22 per cent of seniors have avoided or delayed dental services due to cost, while 1 in 7 (14 per cent) older Australians aged 65+ receive public dental care, with the public dentistry waiting list including about 1 in 12 (8.3 per cent) elders.
Given these constraints, prevention becomes even more crucial. The question isn't whether sparkling water is perfectly safe, but whether the small risk it poses justifies giving up something you enjoy, especially when weighed against more significant threats to your oral health.
Smart sparkling water choices for seniors
- Choose plain over flavoured varieties to reduce acid exposure
- Don't sip continuously—enjoy with meals instead
- Rinse with regular water afterwards
- Wait 30 minutes before brushing teeth after drinking
- Use a straw to minimise contact with teeth
- Don't replace all regular water consumption
Practical advice for Australian seniors
Australian dental experts suggest a balanced approach. You don't have to give up sparkling water entirely. Just follow a few simple tips to keep your teeth in top shape: Drink in moderation—try not to sip sparkling water constantly throughout the day. Give your teeth a break in between.
Use a straw: Drinking through a straw reduces the amount of time the acidic liquid spends in contact with your teeth.
Rinse with water: After you've enjoyed your sparkling water, rinse your mouth with still water to help neutralise the acid.
The timing matters too. Don't rush to brush your teeth right after drinking sparkling water. The acid can temporarily soften your enamel, and brushing straight away can cause damage. Wait around 30 minutes before reaching for your toothbrush.
The bigger picture for seniors
For older Australians already dealing with medication-related dry mouth, the cost barriers to dental care, and age-related oral health decline, sparkling water represents a relatively minor concern in the broader picture.
'For an average, healthy person, carbonated, sugar-free beverages are not going to be a main cavity-causing factor', according to dental experts. The key is maintaining perspective and focusing on the factors that matter most.
Did you know?
Did you know?
Australian seniors consume more dental services than any other age group, yet many still face significant barriers to care. Regular preventive visits can help offset the natural age-related decline in oral health, making small lifestyle adjustments like moderating sparkling water consumption more effective.
What This Means For You
The evidence suggests that for most Australian seniors, occasional sparkling water consumption—particularly plain varieties—poses minimal risk when part of a comprehensive oral health routine.
The bigger threats remain inadequate fluoride exposure, medication-related dry mouth, delayed dental treatment due to cost, and the natural progression of age-related oral health decline.
Rather than eliminating every potential risk, focus on what matters most: maintaining regular dental check-ups (budget permitting), drinking plenty of fluoridated tap water, and practising good oral hygiene. Your sparkling water can stay in the fridge.
What's your experience with balancing the drinks you enjoy with your oral health concerns? Have you noticed changes in your dental health as you've gotten older, and what strategies have worked best for you?
Original Article
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/...tml?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490
Tooth Decay Statistics & Facts Australia—ADC
Cited text: Meanwhile, tooth decay impacts between 19 and 24 teeth in Australian senior patients.
Excerpt: tooth decay impacting between 19 and 24 teeth in Australian senior patients
https://aestheticdentalclinic.com.au/tooth-decay-statistics-facts-australia/
The Truth about Sparkling Water and Your Teeth | MouthHealthy—Oral Health Information from the ADA
Cited text: Because any drink with carbonation—including sparkling water—has a higher acid level, some reports have questioned whether sipping sparkling water wil...
Excerpt: 'Any drink with carbonation has a higher acid level'
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/nutrition/the-truth-about-sparkling-water-and-your-teeth
Seniors Dental Statistics Australia: Oral Health Trends & Insights—ADC
Cited text: The number of Australians aged 65-74 with poor oral health rose by 26 per cent in 2017-18 from 18 per cent in 2004-06. Among elders aged 75 and over, it increased fro...
Excerpt: The number of Australians aged 65-74 with poor oral health rose by 26 per cent in 2017-18 from 18 per cent in 2004-06, while among elders aged 75 and over, it increased from 18 per cent to 23 per cent
https://aestheticdentalclinic.com.au/seniors-dental-statistics-australia/
Seniors Dental Statistics Australia: Oral Health Trends & Insights—ADC
Cited text: What’s more, the case for untreated tooth decay had risen from 22 per cent (2004-06) to 27 per cent (2017-18) for older Aussies.
Excerpt: untreated tooth decay cases rose from 22 per cent to 27 per cent for older Aussies
https://aestheticdentalclinic.com.au/seniors-dental-statistics-australia/
Seniors Dental Statistics Australia: Oral Health Trends & Insights—ADC
Cited text: Around 25 per cent of older Australians experience dry mouth (xerostomia). Saliva acts as the body’s primary shield from tooth decay. While saliva flow declin...
Excerpt: Around 25 per cent of older Australians experience dry mouth (xerostomia).
https://aestheticdentalclinic.com.au/seniors-dental-statistics-australia/
Is Sparkling Water Bad for Your Teeth? - Thurmaston Dental Practice | Dentist in Leicester, Leicestershire
Cited text: Sparkling water gets its fizz from carbon dioxide, which when dissolved in the liquid, forms carbonic acid. This is what gives sparkling water its cha...
Excerpt: Sparkling water gets its fizz from carbon dioxide, which when dissolved in the liquid, forms carbonic acid.
https://thurmastondental.co.uk/is-sparkling-water-bad-for-your-teeth/
Is Sparkling Water Bad for Your Teeth? - Thurmaston Dental Practice | Dentist in Leicester, Leicestershire
Cited text: Acidic drinks can be damaging to your teeth over time. The acid erodes enamel, the hard outer layer that protects your teeth. Once enamel is worn away...
Excerpt: 'Acidic drinks can be damaging to your teeth over time. The acid erodes enamel, the hard outer layer that protects your teeth.
https://thurmastondental.co.uk/is-sparkling-water-bad-for-your-teeth/
Dental Tips: Is Sparkling Water Healthy for your Teeth?
Cited text: The acidity of unflavoured sparkling water is far less than that of citrus juice or many sodas and sports drinks. And most dentists say the risks are ...
Excerpt: The acidity of unflavoured sparkling water is far less than that of citrus juice or many sodas and sports drinks, and most dentists say the risks are minor
https://dentistsonvincent.com.au/leederville-dentist-tips-is-sparkling-water-healthy-for-your-teeth/
The Truth about Sparkling Water and Your Teeth | MouthHealthy—Oral Health Information from the ADA
Cited text: In a study using teeth that were removed as a part of treatment and donated for research, researchers tested to see whether sparkling water would atta...
Excerpt: In a study using teeth that were removed as part of treatment and donated for research, researchers tested to see whether sparkling water would attack tooth enamel more aggressively than regular lab water.
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/nutrition/the-truth-about-sparkling-water-and-your-teeth
Is Sparkling Water Bad For Your Teeth? | Colgate®
Cited text: A Journal of the American Dental Association study found that many popular sports drinks were 'extremely erosive,' while most sparkling carbonated wat...
Excerpt: A Journal of the American Dental Association study found that many popular sports drinks were 'extremely erosive,' while most sparkling carbonated waters ranked as 'minimally erosive'
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/tooth-sensitivity/is-sparkling-water-bad-for-your-teeth
Dental Tips: Is Sparkling Water Healthy for your Teeth?
Cited text: A review of multiple studies found that the combination of carbonation and sugar may lead to severe dental decay. In one study, carbonated beverages w...
Excerpt: A review of multiple studies found that the combination of carbonation and sugar may lead to severe dental decay.
https://dentistsonvincent.com.au/leederville-dentist-tips-is-sparkling-water-healthy-for-your-teeth/
Dental and oral health | Report of the Chief Health Officer Queensland
Cited text: Decay experience among children is higher in areas where residents do not have access to a fluoridated water supply, including in Queensland, even aft...
Excerpt: Nationally, about 89 per cent of the population has access to a fluoridated drinking water supply
https://www.choreport.health.qld.gov.au/our-health/dental-and-oral-health
Dental and oral health | Report of the Chief Health Officer Queensland
Cited text: In Queensland approximately 72 per cent of the population has access to fluoridated drinking water,14 although access to fluoridated drinking water varies sig...
Excerpt: in Queensland approximately 72 per cent of the population has access to fluoridated drinking water
https://www.choreport.health.qld.gov.au/our-health/dental-and-oral-health
The Truth about Sparkling Water and Your Teeth | MouthHealthy—Oral Health Information from the ADA
Cited text: In addition, be sure to drink plenty of regular, fluoridated water, too—it’s the best beverage for your teeth. Water with fluoride naturally helps fig...
Excerpt: Regular, fluoridated water is the best beverage for your teeth. Water with fluoride naturally helps fight cavities, washes away the leftover food cavity-causing bacteria feast on and keeps your mouth from becoming dry
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/nutrition/the-truth-about-sparkling-water-and-your-teeth
Seniors Dental Statistics Australia: Oral Health Trends & Insights—ADC
Cited text: Besides long wait times and limited facilities, 22 per cent of seniors have avoided or delayed dental services due to cost.
Excerpt: 22 per cent of seniors have avoided or delayed dental services due to cost
https://aestheticdentalclinic.com.au/seniors-dental-statistics-australia/
Seniors Dental Statistics Australia: Oral Health Trends & Insights—ADC
Cited text: That equates to 1 in 7 (14 per cent) older Australians aged 65+ receiving public dental care. The public dentistry waiting list included about 1 in 12 (8.3 per cent) ...
Excerpt: 1 in 7 (14 per cent) older Australians aged 65+ receive public dental care, with the public dentistry waiting list including about 1 in 12 (8.3 per cent) elders
https://aestheticdentalclinic.com.au/seniors-dental-statistics-australia/
Is Sparkling Water Bad for Your Teeth? - Thurmaston Dental Practice | Dentist in Leicester, Leicestershire
Cited text: You don’t have to give up sparkling water entirely. Just follow a few simple tips to keep your teeth in top shape: Drink in Moderation: Try not to sip...
Excerpt: You don't have to give up sparkling water entirely. Just follow a few simple tips to keep your teeth in top shape: Drink in moderation—try not to sip sparkling water constantly throughout the day.
https://thurmastondental.co.uk/is-sparkling-water-bad-for-your-teeth/
Is Sparkling Water Bad for Your Teeth? - Thurmaston Dental Practice | Dentist in Leicester, Leicestershire
Cited text: Use a Straw: Drinking through a straw reduces the amount of time the acidic liquid spends in contact with your teeth. Rinse with Water: After you’ve e...
Excerpt: Use a straw: Drinking through a straw reduces the amount of time the acidic liquid spends in contact with your teeth.
https://thurmastondental.co.uk/is-sparkling-water-bad-for-your-teeth/
Is Sparkling Water Bad for Your Teeth? - Thurmaston Dental Practice | Dentist in Leicester, Leicestershire
Cited text: Wait Before Brushing: Don’t rush to brush your teeth right after drinking sparkling water. The acid can temporarily soften your enamel, and brushing s...
Excerpt: Don't rush to brush your teeth right after drinking sparkling water. The acid can temporarily soften your enamel, and brushing straight away can cause damage.
https://thurmastondental.co.uk/is-sparkling-water-bad-for-your-teeth/
Is Sparkling Water Bad For Your Teeth? | Colgate®
Cited text: 'For an average, healthy person, carbonated, sugar-free beverages are not going to be a main cavity-causing factor,' according to the U.S. News & Worl...
Excerpt: 'For an average, healthy person, carbonated, sugar-free beverages are not going to be a main cavity-causing factor'
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/tooth-sensitivity/is-sparkling-water-bad-for-your-teeth
Seniors Discount Club
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