Dentist Rohnert Park Lists Best & Worst Summer Sips for Your Smile

Summer in Wine Country is a time to savor the best of the season: warm sunshine, lush vineyards, and, of course, a perfect glass of something refreshing. At Sonoma Smiles, your trusted dentist in Rohnert Park, we know that not every sip is kind to your smile. As you enjoy your summer gatherings, we want to help you make informed choices about what you drink to protect your teeth while still indulging in the finer things.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a barbecue, or savoring an evening on your patio overlooking the vineyards, your drink choices can impact your overall oral health in ways you might not expect. Sip, sip, HOORAY! Our Rohnert Park dentist dives into the best and worst summer sips for your smile, so you can enjoy the season guilt-free.

The Best Summer Sips for Your Smile

1. Water, The Ultimate Hydrator

No surprise here! Water is hands-down the best beverage for your teeth and your overall health. It washes away food particles, helps maintain saliva flow, and keeps your mouth hydrated. If you’re looking to add a bit of flair, try sparkling water with fresh lemon, mint, or cucumber for a refreshing twist without the sugar or acids that harm enamel.

2. Unsweetened Iced Tea

Iced tea, especially green or white varieties, can be an excellent antioxidant-rich choice that won’t harm your teeth if consumed without added sugar. Green tea has compounds that may even support gum health. Again, just remember to skip the sweeteners and avoid prolonged sipping to minimize acid exposure.

3. Milk and Unsweetened Almond Milk

Dairy provides calcium and vitamin D, both crucial for strong teeth and bones. Unsweetened almond or other plant-based milks can also be good alternatives, just watch out for added sugars.

4. Fresh Vegetable Juice

Vegetable juices like cucumber or celery juice are hydrating and generally low in sugar. They provide vitamins and minerals without the acidity found in many fruit juices.

The Worst Drinks for Your Teeth & Gums

1. Sweetened Cocktails and Mixed Drinks

Many popular summer cocktails are loaded with sugar and acidic mixers like citrus juices or soda. These ingredients can rapidly erode tooth enamel and feed bacteria that cause cavities. Think margaritas, daiquiris, and even sweet wine spritzers. If you must indulge, try to drink water alongside and use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.

2. Soda and Energy Drinks

These are notorious culprits for tooth decay, packed with sugars and phosphoric or citric acid. Even diet sodas, though sugar-free, contain acids that weaken enamel over time.

3. Fruit Juices, Especially Citrus

While natural, fruit juices can be highly acidic and contain concentrated sugars. Orange, grapefruit, and lemonade may quench your thirst, but can lead to enamel erosion and sensitivity if consumed frequently.

4. Red Wine

Living in Wine Country, we know red wine is a beloved indulgence. However, it’s a double-edged sword. The acidity and deep pigments in a glass of red can stain teeth and soften enamel. To enjoy red wine while protecting your smile, rinse your mouth with water after drinking, and avoid brushing immediately, as your enamel is temporarily softened and more prone to damage.

5 Summer-Ready Tips From Your Dentist Rohnert Park

• Hydrate consistently with water between other beverages to keep your mouth rinsed and saliva flowing.
• Limit sipping time. The longer your teeth are exposed to acids and sugars, the greater the damage.
• Use a straw for acidic or sugary drinks to reduce contact with your teeth.
• Wait to brush at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic beverages to avoid damaging softened enamel.
• Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings to catch and prevent early signs of decay or staining.

Experience Dental Care as Refined as Your Taste

Enjoy the summer sun and those perfect sips, just remember to choose wisely for a smile that’s as radiant as the vineyards you love.At Sonoma Smiles, we understand the lifestyle of Wine Country—from exquisite dining to impeccable style—and we’re here to help you maintain a smile worthy of the setting. If you’re looking for a gentle dentist in Rohnert Park who can guide you on preserving your oral health through every season, we invite you to schedule a consultation.

Dr. Wayne Sutton

Connect with Dr. Wayne Sutton on Linkedin

A renowned cosmetic dentist in Sonoma County, Dr. Sutton has over 20 years of experience and maintains a standard of excellence at his implant center using the strongest dental implant bridge currently available to provide predictable full mouth dental implant reconstructions.

Dr. Sutton received his postgraduate at The Pacific Aesthetic Continuum in San Francisco and his doctorate and three years of experience as a clinical instructor from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1997, where he was the only one to receive the “Clinical Excellence Award”. He also studied Advanced Occlusion at the Hornbrook Group and earned his Fellowship in the Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics.

Today, Dr. Sutton takes over 4 times the annual continuing education requirements to maintain his license. He is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (awarded his Fellowship), the Academy of General Dentistry (Fellowships status), the American Dental Implant Association (Diplomat status), the American Dental Association, the American Academy for Dental Sleep Medicine, and is a select cosmetic dentist recognized as an Official Dentist of the Mrs. Globe – Mrs. USA Pageants.