A dentist has issued a warning about the popular “gut-healthy” drink, kombucha, saying it could be damaging to your teeth. The fizzy, fermented tea drink has gained attention for its health benefits, thanks to its abundance of good bacteria. However, oral surgeon Dr. Andrej Bozic from Dentum warns that it could quietly erode tooth enamel over time.
Dr. Bozic explained, “While kombucha is considered a health drink, it is quite acidic, which can be harmful to your enamel.” The acidity comes from the fermentation process, which involves tea, sugar, and live cultures. This creates a tangy fizz but also lowers the pH level, making it acidic enough to weaken the protective surface of your teeth.
Enamel erosion doesn’t happen quickly, but Dr. Bozic said that regular exposure to kombucha, especially when consumed between meals or allowed to sit on teeth, can cause damage over time. “If you’re sipping on kombucha every day, you’re giving acid regular access to your enamel. That’s when the problems begin,” he said.
Acidic drinks can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, yellowing, and a higher risk of cavities, even if you brush and floss regularly. Dr. Bozic also noted, “It’s not just sugary drinks you need to watch out for; even these so-called ‘healthy’ options can be harmful to your teeth.”
The warning extends beyond kombucha. Dr. Bozic cautioned that all fizzy drinks, including sparkling water and cola, could harm tooth enamel if consumed too often. “People are often surprised to learn that even fizzy water can wear down enamel,” he said. “Cola and other soft drinks are worse because they also contain sugar.”
While Dr. Bozic doesn’t suggest cutting kombucha from your diet entirely, he recommends consuming it wisely. He advised drinking it with meals rather than sipping it throughout the day, using a straw to minimize contact with teeth, and waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water afterwards can help neutralize the acid and protect enamel.
Dr. Bozic’s advice comes at a time when more dentists are noticing enamel erosion in younger patients who follow healthy diets and brush regularly. “It’s the hidden habits, like drinking kombucha or lemon water, that catch people off guard,” he said. “These drinks have benefits, but from a dental perspective, they’re not as harmless as people think.”
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