A Summer Dental Health Reminder from Desert Sage Family Dental.

Summer in Phoenix isn’t for the faint of heart. With scorching temperatures and outdoor activities in full swing, staying hydrated and replenishing electrolytes is essential — especially for kids, athletes, and anyone spending time outside. That’s where sports drinks often come in.

While sports drinks can be helpful after intense activity by replacing lost fluids and electrolytes like sodium and potassium, they also come with a hidden downside: high levels of sugar and acid that can harm your teeth.

How Sports Drinks Affect Your Teeth

Most sports drinks are highly acidic and loaded with sugar. The combination of these two ingredients can weaken your enamel and create the perfect environment for cavities. The longer your teeth are exposed to these substances, the greater the risk of decay and erosion.

One of the biggest issues is how we drink them. Sipping on a sports drink over the course of several hours — for example, during a long day at the pool or on the sidelines of a game — means your teeth are constantly bathed in sugar and acid. This ongoing exposure is much more damaging than drinking the same beverage in one sitting.

Smart Tips for Enjoying Sports Drinks Safely

If you or your child rely on sports drinks in the summer, here are a few simple ways to protect your teeth:

• Limit them to when they’re truly needed. Water should still be your go-to for regular hydration. Save sports drinks for intense physical activity.
• Drink it in one sitting. Don’t sip throughout the day. The less time your teeth are exposed, the better.
• Rinse with water afterward. This helps wash away sugar and acid and restores a more neutral pH in your mouth.
• Avoid brushing immediately after. Your enamel may be temporarily softened, so wait 30–60 minutes before brushing.

At Desert Sage Family Dental, we’re here to help you and your family keep your smiles healthy all year long — even in the Phoenix heat. If you have questions about protecting your teeth this summer, give us a call or schedule your next check-up. We’re happy to help!