It’s customary to give children sports drinks when they’re at practice or during a game. While these beverages are often formulated with valuable carbohydrates, potassium, sodium, and amino acids, they can also negatively affect your child’s oral health. Pediatric dentists often warn against these drinks for their sugar content, which can have an adverse effect on the teeth and gums over time. Here’s why water is the more practical choice.

What Ingredients Do Sports Drinks Contain?

Sports drinks are packed with ingredients that the average child doesn’t need. Some have amino acids to support muscle recovery, for example, but if your child eats a well-balanced diet, they don’t need more. 

They’re also packed with carbohydrates, usually from sources like sucrose and high-fructose corn syrup. While the carbohydrates can boost energy levels, they can also expose the teeth and gums to excess amounts of sugar. 

Most sports beverages also contain citric acid. While it’s added to drinks to enhance the flavor, it can also cause the enamel on the teeth to deteriorate over time. That leaves the teeth thinner, more sensitive, and more likely to develop toothaches and cavities that send them to the pediatric dentist. 

Why Is Water Considered the Better Choice?

Plain water is the superior choice because it is clean, pure, and hydrating. That’s primarily the most important benefit a drink can provide after a practice session or a game. Water doesn’t contain sugar, isn’t caffeinated like some sports drinks, and doesn’t contain flavors or artificial ingredients. These factors are vital to their long-term health, both for their teeth and their bodies.

Water’s also the best option for kids because both practice and games may be lower-intensity events than hardcore workouts. If they work out for more than an hour at a higher intensity, a sports drink may help them recharge. 

Otherwise, rehydrating with water is best. It also restores moisture to the mouth after a workout, preventing dryness that otherwise inhibits saliva production. More saliva helps wash away bacteria on a consistent basis and protects the teeth and gums.

If you seek a reliable pediatric dentist in Somerset, KY, turn to Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC. Dr. Prather offers a broad range of services to ensure your little one’s oral health, including teeth cleaning, fillings, toothache treatments, and general exams. Call the office at (606) 679-5437 to schedule an appointment.