After watching their kids build up a good sweat on the playing field, parents are often tempted to reach for a sports drink to help their little athletes rehydrate. But pediatric dentists warn that the ingredients in these drinks could be doing more harm than good. Keep reading to learn how sports drinks can damage a child's oral health and why water is the better post-game choice.

What's in Sports Drinks?

Many sports drinks promise to help athletes recover from high-intensity exercise by replacing electrolytes and energy-boosting carbohydrates. Unfortunately, that energy often comes from sugar in ingredients like high fructose corn syrup or sucrose. While sports drinks typically contain less sugar than sodas, pediatric dentists say it's still enough to affect a child's oral health. 

When the bacteria that naturally occur in the mouth feed on the sugars in sports drinks, they create acids that destroy the protective layer of enamel on the teeth. This leaves teeth and gums exposed to cavities, decay, and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. The threat is further compounded by the high levels of citric acid in many sports drinks, which also damages tooth enamel and promotes cavities.

What Are Some Healthy Alternatives?

Pediatric dentists recommend giving your kids water instead of sports drinks during and after exercise. Water provides fast and effective hydration without the tooth damaging sugars and acids. How much water a child should drink depends on several factors, including their body weight, the type of activity they are doing, and the environment. Encouraging them to drink at least 12 ounces of water anytime they feel thirsty should keep them well hydrated. 

If your child finds plain water too boring, try infusing some flavor by adding a little mint, basil, or a squeeze of lemon. Coconut water provides natural electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and manganese without the harmful sugars and acids. Milk is also a good source of hydration as well as important, teeth-building minerals and vitamins like calcium and vitamin D. 

No matter how your little athletes rehydrate, good habits such as brushing for at least two minutes twice a day, and flossing once a day, along with regular check-ups will help keep their mouths healthy. When your child does consume sports drinks or other high-sugar beverages, pediatric dentists recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid further damaging the enamel.

When your little sports star needs a dental check-up, take them to Pediatric Dentistry of Onalaska, LLC in Onalaska, WI. Their warm and welcoming staff knows how to put kids at ease. They focus on teaching young patients the good oral health habits they need to maintain healthy gums and teeth all their lives. Call them today at (608) 781-9114 or visit them online for more information.