Are sugar free drinks still bad for my teeth?
By Celia Burns on 3rd June 2025
In a word… yes!
It’s a common misconception that switching to diet or sugar-free fizzy drinks is a safe choice for your teeth. While it’s true that these drinks contain little or no sugar, which reduces the risk of tooth decay, they still pose a real threat to your dental health.
The real problem is acidity. Although diet drinks may skip the sugar, they’re still highly acidic, which wears down the hard enamel that protects your teeth and over time can lead to tooth erosion, increased sensitivity, discolouration, tooth wear and a higher risk of decay and cavities.
Once enamel is worn away, it doesn’t grow back, so protecting it is key. If you are looking for tooth-friendly alternatives to fizzy drinks, here are a few safer options:
- Water – Always the best choice for hydration and oral health.
- Milk – A good source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein – all crucial for overall health.
- Unsweetened tea – Particularly green or herbal teas, which have antioxidant properties.
- Sugar-free squash – A better alternative if you’re after something flavoured (but still check the label for acidity!).
Even if it’s labelled “diet” or “zero sugar,” a fizzy drink can still be damaging to your enamel.
We appreciate that everything can be enjoyed in moderation, so if you do decide to indulge in a fizzy drink occasionally, the following tips will reduce the damage done:
- Drink through a straw
- Rinse your mouth with water afterwards to minimise acid exposure
- Avoid brushing your teeth for at least an hour and ideally up to 4 hours after drinking
- Chew sugar free gum after your drink…or…
- Eat a small piece of cheese after your drink
- Avoid drinking fizzy drinks late at night
