Down here in the desert, it’s a dry heat. Well, that’s what the optimists tell me. But when I’m outside working at a construction site and it’s 106°, as I sometimes do, it makes no difference to me if it’s 90% or 20% humidity. All I know is that I’m parched, dusty, and sweaty—and would love nothing more than to sip a refreshing Coca-Cola.
But here’s the thing: not all cold beverages are created equal, especially when it comes to keeping you hydrated and protecting your smile. That ice-cold Coke might taste like heaven in the moment, but the sugar and acidity hiding inside could spell trouble for your teeth—and your hydration levels—in the long run. So what should you avoid reaching for on those sweltering hot days, and what’s a healthier alternative to keep your mouth fresh and body hydrated? Let’s dive in.
🥇 Best Summer Sips for Your Smile
Cold, refreshing, and tooth-friendly—these are your top picks for hot days.
Examples:
- Cold water (fluoridated or mineral): Best for hydration, best for your teeth.
- Infused water (cucumber, mint, berries): Tastes better, stays smile-safe—just avoid citrus slices.
- Unsweetened iced herbal teas: Cooling and gentle on enamel if they’re not acidic.
💡 Dr. Nathan and Dr. Preston recommend keeping a reusable bottle of cold water nearby all summer long. Hydration + oral health = win-win.
🟡 Proceed With Caution: Summer Drinks That Aren’t So Innocent
These seem healthy or refreshing but come with sneaky downsides.
Examples:
- Flavored sparkling waters: Slightly acidic; not terrible, but not neutral either.
- Unsweetened iced coffee or tea: Low in sugar, but may stain and contribute to dry mouth.
- Coconut water: Naturally sweet and a decent hydrator, but still contains sugar and may be acidic.
⚠️ Drink them in moderation and follow with a water rinse when possible.
🟠 Surprising Summer Saboteurs
Popular during summer, but they dry you out or wear down enamel with sugar and acid.
Examples:
- Fruit juices (especially citrus): Refreshing, but highly acidic and sugary—even “no sugar added” kinds.
- Sports drinks: Marketed for hydration but often loaded with sugar and acid.
- Frozen blended drinks (like iced chai or sweetened frappes): Cold and tasty, but sugar bombs.
🧊 A straw helps reduce contact with teeth. Better yet—hydrate with water first, then sip these as a treat.
🔴 The Worst Summer Drinks for Your Teeth (and Hydration)
They’re cold, they’re tempting… and they’re absolutely brutal on your mouth.
Examples:
- Sodas (especially Coke/Pepsi and citrus-flavored): Acidic and sugary, even when served ice-cold.
- Energy drinks: Combine acidity, sugar, and caffeine—a triple threat to enamel.
- Sweet alcoholic cocktails (like margaritas or hard lemonades): Acid + sugar + dehydration.
🔥 On a hot day, these actually make you thirstier and put your enamel at risk. Not the refreshment you think they are.
When the summer heat is beating down and you’re desperate for something cold and satisfying, it’s easy to reach for the nearest icy can or colorful bottle. But your teeth—and your body—will thank you for thinking twice. Staying hydrated doesn’t have to come at the cost of your oral health. With a few smart swaps, you can keep cool and keep your smile strong all season long.
Got questions about your favorite summer drink or how to protect your enamel? Dr. Nathan and Dr. Preston at Atascadero Hills Dental are here to help. Schedule your next checkup, and let’s keep that smile summer-ready!