Is Sparkling Water Bad for Your Teeth in Canada?
Sparkling water is everywhere—from hockey rinks to office fridges. But does the fizz wear down your enamel? Here’s a practical, Canadian-focused look at what’s in your can, what it does to teeth, and easy ways to drink it safely.
Is sparkling water bad for your teeth?
Plain sparkling water is generally safe for most people’s teeth when enjoyed with meals and not sipped all day. Flavoured or citrus seltzers can be more acidic, which may raise erosion and sensitivity risk—especially if you already have weak enamel.
First, the science: carbonation, acidity, and enamel
Carbonation turns water into carbonic acid, which lowers pH. Plain seltzers typically land around pH 4–5, while colas hover closer to ~2.5. That means plain sparkling water is far less acidic than soda, but still more acidic than still water (pH ~7).
Enamel softens as pH dips under about 5.5. Brief, occasional exposure is usually fine—your saliva buffers acids and helps re-harden enamel. Problems start when acidic drinks are sipped continuously throughout the day, giving your teeth little time to recover.
Flavoured vs plain: why flavour matters
Many flavoured seltzers—especially citrus (lemon, lime, grapefruit)—contain additional acids to boost taste and shelf life. That can push pH lower and increase the chance of enamel wear and sensitivity over time.
If you love the science behind acid and tooth wear, you’ll find a deeper dive in our guide on how acidic drinks erode enamel.
What this means for Canadians: everyday, doable habits
Better ways to enjoy fizz
- Drink with meals, not all day: Mealtime saliva flow helps neutralize acids.
- Prefer plain or unflavoured: Save citrus or highly flavoured seltzers for occasional treats.
- Use a straw for direct sipping: It can reduce contact with front teeth.
- Alternate with still water: Especially fluoridated tap water where available.
- Don’t brush right after: Wait 30–60 minutes before brushing to avoid scrubbing softened enamel.
Watch for sensitivity
Cold, fizzy drinks can trigger zingers if your dentin is exposed (from gum recession or worn enamel). If the twinges persist, try a sensitivity toothpaste, reduce flavours, and see your dentist. Here are more ways to reduce tooth sensitivity comfortably at home.
Fluoride, saliva, and why tap water still matters
Across Canada, many municipalities fluoridate drinking water, supporting enamel remineralization. Swapping some seltzers for fluoridated tap water (or using a fluoride rinse or toothpaste) can help offset occasional acid exposures from any beverage.
“Water with fluoride—sometimes called nature’s cavity fighter—helps prevent cavities.” — American Dental Association
If you’re curious how fluoride supports enamel and how to use it safely, explore fluoride’s role in dental health.
Common questions Canadians ask about sparkling water
Is sparkling water as bad as soda?
No. Plain sparkling water is far less acidic and contains no sugar, making it a much better choice than soda or energy drinks for your teeth and overall health.
Does sparkling water cause cavities?
Not by itself. Cavities are driven mostly by sugar and fermentable carbs that feed bacteria. Plain seltzers don’t add sugar. The main concern is enamel erosion from acidity, especially with continuous sipping and citrus flavours.
Can flavoured seltzers stain teeth?
Lightly flavoured clear seltzers are less likely to stain than coffee, tea, or red wine. However, frequent exposure to acid can roughen enamel slightly, which may make other pigments stick more easily over time.
What if I have dry mouth?
With low saliva, acids linger longer. If you have dry mouth from medications, vaping, or winter heating, choose plain still water often, chew xylitol gum to stimulate saliva, and ask your dentist about saliva substitutes or fluoride varnishes.
Is Perrier or club soda different?
Natural mineral waters and club sodas can vary in pH and mineral content. Most are still less acidic than soft drinks. When in doubt: favour plain, drink with food, and rotate with still water.
Smart sipping game plan
- Choose plain when possible; limit citrus flavours to occasional use.
- Pair fizz with meals to let saliva buffer acids.
- Rinse with still water after sipping—especially if you’ll brush later.
- Time brushing: wait 30–60 minutes post-fizz to protect enamel.
- Support enamel: daily fluoride toothpaste; consider a fluoride rinse if you enjoy acidic drinks regularly.
Who should be extra careful?
- People with active erosion or white-spot lesions
- Those with gum recession or exposed root surfaces
- Anyone with ongoing sensitivity
- Dry mouth (xerostomia) from medications, cannabis, vaping, or CPAP
- Kids and teens with braces (acid can etch around brackets if hygiene slips)
If any of the above applies, work with your dental team on a personalized plan. That might include sensitivity toothpaste, professional fluoride varnish, and a check on brushing technique, diet, and sipping habits.
How to read labels and make better picks
- Ingredients list: Shorter is better. Look for just carbonated water and natural flavour; avoid added citric or phosphoric acid when possible.
- Nutrition facts: 0 g sugar is your friend. If it’s sweetened, treat it like any soft drink for teeth.
- Consider calcium-rich snacks: Pair your fizz with cheese, yogurt, or nuts to help buffer acids.
Canadian context: tap, bottle, or bubbles?
Still tap water (especially where fluoridated) remains the most tooth-friendly daily drink. Sparkling water is a smart upgrade from sugary beverages—just sip it strategically. For athletes and winter commuters, keep a refillable bottle of still water handy to balance any fizz breaks.
Conclusion
Sparkling water isn’t the villain it’s made out to be. Plain seltzers enjoyed with meals are generally fine for your teeth. The key is how you drink—avoid all-day sipping, go easy on citrus flavours, rinse with still water, and keep fluoride in your routine. If sensitivity or erosion is already on your radar, ask your dentist for tailored guidance and simple swaps that fit your life.
FAQ
Does carbonated water remove calcium from teeth?
No. The concern is temporary enamel softening from acidity—not calcium leaching. Saliva and fluoride help re-harden enamel after short acid exposures.
Is San Pellegrino or lemon-lime seltzer worse for enamel?
Citrus-flavoured options tend to be more acidic. If you love them, limit frequency, have them with meals, and rinse with still water afterwards.
What’s the best way to brush if I drink seltzer?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. If you just had a fizzy drink, wait 30–60 minutes so you’re not brushing softened enamel.
Can I add a splash of juice to plain seltzer?
Yes—but it increases acidity and sugar. Keep splashes small, drink with food, and rinse with still water afterwards.
Will a straw really help?
It can. A straw reduces contact time with front teeth, especially helpful for frequent sippers or those with sensitivity.
What if I already have enamel erosion?
Work with your dentist on a plan: limit acidic drinks, use sensitivity toothpaste, consider professional fluoride, and focus on meal-time sipping. Learn more about the process in our article on acidic drinks and enamel.
