Protein shakes have grown in popularity in recent years. These beverages mix protein powder with juices, fruits, milk, or other ingredients to make a delicious and nutritious drink. Whether you want to improve your muscle tone or fitness or boost your nutrition, protein drinks can make a great addition to your diet.
But many people may not realize that these shakes can hurt your oral health if you do not pay attention to your smile. You can still drink these shakes without issue if you take precautions when it comes to your oral health. Read on to find tips from your dentist that will ensure your smile continues looking and feeling its best while you enjoy a protein shake.
Rinse Away Grit on Teeth
When you drink a protein shake, you might notice a gritty residue left behind on your smile. The thick texture of this beverage easily clings to your teeth, remaining behind after you finish your drink. The grit will feel uncomfortable, but it also presents a threat to your dental health.
Lingering food particles like this grit on your smile will encourage plaque formation, bringing bacteria to your teeth. This then eats away at your dental structure, weakening the enamel so that you are at risk of tooth decay and other dental dangers.
Once gone, eroded enamel does not grow back. So you want to preserve your natural dental structure as much as you can. This should include getting rid of leftover grit in your mouth from your protein shakes.
If you cannot access your oral hygiene supplies, you should drink water. This will rinse away residues from your smile in a pinch, boosting your oral cleanliness and therefore your dental health.
Avoid High Sugar Content
Many protein shakes contain added sugar to enhance their flavor. While this sweetness can taste appealing, sugar notoriously hurts your teeth. Sugar becomes acidic when it reacts with saliva, and the acid can then erode your enamel. Then you can have a high risk of cavity formation.
Check the ingredients in your protein shake before consuming it to ensure you do not take in too much extra sugar. When making your own protein shake, consider other ingredients that can boost the flavor without harming your oral health. Cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg make for delicious alternatives.
Continue Good Oral Hygiene
The best way to ensure your smile withstands potential damage from items you consume like protein drinks is to maintain good oral hygiene. At-home teeth brushing and flossing will clear away harmful residues that will otherwise weaken your smile. Practicing this good preventative dental care will help your teeth stay strong enough to resist aesthetic and structural damage from the foods and drinks you consume.
To maximize oral hygiene, visit your dentist for routine teeth cleanings and oral exams as well. Contact your dentist if you notice any changes or concerns in your smile for early intervention with potential issues.