Oral Health Warning: 5 Sugary Drinks That Harm Your Teeth

We often hear how sugar affects our waistlines, but did you know your oral health could be suffering just as much—if not more? Sugar-laden drinks are one of the biggest culprits behind tooth decay, enamel erosion, and cavities.

But the damage doesn’t stop at your mouth. The chances of age-related illnesses like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity also increase with frequent intake of high-sugar drinks.

It is just as important to be aware of what is in your glass as it is to brush and floss to keep your teeth healthy.

Here are five common drinks with high sugar levels.

1. Soft Drinks overflow with sugar

One 355 ml can of Coca-Cola contains 39 grams of sugar, and a 355 ml can of Mountain Dew contains 47 grams!

That’s equivalent to nearly 10–12 teaspoons of sugar in one small can. Sugar nourishes harmful bacteria in your mouth that create acid as a byproduct.

This acid wears away at your tooth enamel—the protective outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this leads to cavities, sensitivity, and enamel erosion.

Even “diet” or “zero sugar” soft drinks aren’t safe for your teeth, as the acidity in these drinks can still break down enamel.

2. Energy Drinks are loaded with sugar

The energy you get from most energy drinks partly comes from your sugar high. A 245 ml can of Red Bull Energy Drink has 27 grams of sugar, while the larger 473 ml can of Rockstar Energy Drink has a shocking 62 grams in one sitting!

Energy drinks are especially damaging for teenagers and young adults, who often consume them frequently during school, sports, or work.

Combined with high acidity, the sugar in these drinks quickly softens enamel. With regular use, you may begin to experience tooth sensitivity, decay, and discolouration—all signs that your oral health is under strain.

3. Large fountain drinks carry a massive load of sugar

These massive drinks contain massive amounts of sugar. A 7-11 Coca-Cola Big Gulp includes 91 grams, while the larger Super Big Gulp contains 146 grams of sugar per cup.

These beverages are often consumed slowly over time, which exposes your teeth to sugar and acid for extended periods. This prolonged exposure gives bacteria more opportunity to produce enamel-eroding acid.

Your oral health is much better served by sticking to water or limiting these drinks to occasional treats.

4. Fruit Juice

We think of fruit juice as healthy, but it can come with a large load of sugar. 591 ml of Golden Circle Tropical Fruit Juice carries 70 grams of sugar. Snapple Lemon Iced Tea (473 ml) contains 46 grams. Surprisingly, Orange Juice has 46 grams per 591 ml.

These sugars are often naturally occurring, but that doesn’t make them harmless. They still feed bacteria and contribute to plaque buildup, especially when consumed without brushing afterwards.

If you’re aiming to maintain strong oral health, fruit juice should be an occasional drink—not a daily staple.

5. Even calcium-rich milk drinks contain sugar

Nesquik Chocolate Milk (473 ml) contains 58 grams, while substitute Vitasoy has 18 grams in only 240 ml.

Sugar is everywhere, so pay attention to what you’re drinking. Choose healthy alternatives to sugary drinks!

If these drinks are sipped throughout the day or consumed right before bed without brushing, the sugar has plenty of time to sit on your teeth and contribute to decay.

Stick with plain milk when possible, and limit flavoured varieties to mealtimes.

How to Take Care of Your Oral Health

Staying informed is the first step. By understanding which drinks carry the highest sugar loads, you can make smarter choices that support your oral health.

• Drink water regularly—it helps flush out sugar and acids.
• Use a straw with sugary beverages to limit contact with your teeth.
• Don’t sip sugary drinks over long periods.
• Floss and brush, and never miss out on your dental appointments with West Ryde dentist.

Small adjustments can make a huge impact. It’s not about cutting everything out overnight—just being more mindful of what you’re drinking.

Oral Health in West Ryde

At My Local Dentists, we want to help you protect your oral health not just through cleanings and treatments—but through knowledge. A strong and healthy set of teeth and being free of cavities is not an impossible task, as long as you make the right decision to drink the right things.

Call your West Ryde dentist on (02) 9809 7000 to claim your GAP FREE check-up, scale & clean, X-ray and fluoride treatment (with any health insurance)

Book your online appointment today, or visit us at Shop 20 West Ryde Marketplace, 14 Anthony Road in West Ryde.