When it comes to your child’s oral health, what they drink can be just as important as their diet and oral hygiene habits. Carbonated, sugary, and acidic drinks are the most damaging to growing teeth — and the worst drinks of all might actually surprise you.
On the positive side, there are drinks that can actually support and protect your child’s teeth.
Best Drinks for Your Child’s Teeth
- Water — Great for hydration and contains natural minerals that promote healthy teeth and gums. Water washes away food particles, preventing a buildup of bacteria which could lead to cavities and plaque. In Australia, tap water is typically fluoridated, helping to strengthen enamel and prevent decay.
- Milk — Plain, unsweetened cow’s milk contains calcium and vitamins which strengthen the enamel of the teeth and reduce tooth decay. The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend milk as a good source of calcium for growing children.
- Coconut Water — As long as it’s unsweetened, coconut water is packed full of vitamins, antioxidants and electrolytes. While it isn’t as healthy as water, it comes highly recommended by dentists as an alternative to sports drinks.
- Diluted Fruit Juice — Even 100% fruit juice should be limited due to natural sugars and acids. If your child loves juice, it’s best to dilute it down at a ratio of one part juice to three parts water. Note that diluting juice is a last resort rather than a recommended daily habit.
- Unsweetened Milk Alternatives — Offers similar benefits to cow’s milk but is better for lactose-intolerant children or those who don’t drink milk. Choose calcium-fortified versions, as many plant-based milks in Australia are not naturally high in calcium.
Worst Drinks for Your Child’s Teeth
- Soft Drinks — A major contributor to dental erosion in Australian children, according to the ADA. Sugar content and high acidity paired with carbonation soften tooth enamel, increasing the risk of decay. Even diet versions remain harmful due to their acidity.
- Sweet Tea and Iced Tea — Bottled iced teas can contain high levels of sugar and acid. They may also stain teeth and contain caffeine. If your child does drink iced tea, ensure it’s unsweetened and limited.
- Energy Drinks — Not recommended for children under 18 in Australia due to high caffeine and sugar levels. Brands like V, Monster, and Red Bull can be worse for teeth than regular soft drinks due to extreme acidity and sugar content.
- Sports Drinks — These have high sugar and acid levels which contribute to tooth erosion and decay. While they can help with hydration, water and a healthy snack usually achieve the same results. Sports drinks should only be consumed under medical or sports nutrition guidance.
- 100% Fruit Juice — Though natural, it’s loaded with sugar and acids. The ADA recommends limiting intake and opting for whole fruits instead, which offer fibre and less concentrated sugars.
Practical Ways to Get Your Child to Drink Healthy Drinks
There are simple and effective ways to help your child make better drink choices. Australian dentists and orthodontists for kids advise that healthy drink habits start early.
Tips for encouraging healthy drink choices:
- Associate drinks with their favourite characters (e.g., Bluey, Marvel) by using themed reusable bottles. Praise healthy choices to reinforce positive behaviour.
- Introduce fun names like “super water” or “magic milk” to make the drinks more appealing and imaginative.
- Serve drinks with meals or snacks, and serve them cold when possible to mask any unfamiliar flavours.
- Lead by example. Kids are more likely to drink water or milk if they see their parents doing the same.
Tips for reducing damage from sugary or acidic drinks:
- Rinse your child’s mouth with water after consumption to wash away sugars and acids.
- Limit sipping time to reduce teeth exposure to harmful substances.
- Use a straw to minimise contact with teeth and braces.
- Dilute sugary drinks with water to reduce acidity and sugar concentration.
Contact Your Local Dentist
Helping your kids make better choices about what they drink will set them up for a lifetime of healthier teeth and gums.
For tailored advice about your child’s dental or orthodontic needs, speak to a paediatric dentist or an orthodontist for kids. At Smile On Clinics, we have a network of premium, industry-leading dental practices located across NSW and the Sunshine Coast.