Dr Deepa Chopra said even ‘sugar-free’ variants are still doing enormous damage to your teeth
A leading dentist has issued a stark warning about the long-term damage energy drinks are doing to the nation’s teeth – particularly among young adults and teenagers. Dr Deepa Chopra, dentist at Whites Dental, says energy drinks are among the most harmful everyday beverages for oral health due to their highly acidic nature and sugar content – a “double threat” to enamel.
“While most people are aware that fizzy drinks and sweets are bad for your teeth, energy drinks are often overlooked,” said Dr Chopra. “But they’re actually one of the most destructive products we see patients regularly consuming – especially younger patients. They’re acidic, sugary, and often consumed frequently throughout the day.”
According to Dr Chopra, the enamel erosion caused by energy drinks can result in heightened sensitivity, yellowing of teeth, decay, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.
Sugar + Acid = Dental Disaster
“Many energy drinks contain more than the daily recommended amount of sugar in just one can, but it’s the acid content that makes them especially dangerous,” she continued. “Even the sugar-free versions can contain high levels of citric acid, which gradually dissolves tooth enamel over time.”
The pH level of most energy drinks falls between 2.5 and 3.5, making them more acidic than vinegar. When consumed regularly, especially between meals, this creates a hostile environment in the mouth that weakens the tooth’s outer layer.
“Your mouth needs time to recover after an acidic drink,” Dr Chopra explains. “But when someone sips an energy drink slowly over an hour or has several in a day, their teeth are essentially bathing in acid – and that damage adds up fast.”
Worrying Trends in Teens and Young Adults
With the energy drink market heavily marketed to under-30s – particularly those in sport, gaming, and study environments – Dr Chopra says many young people are unaware of the risks.
“We’re seeing more teenagers come into the practice with advanced enamel erosion, sensitivity, and early signs of decay – all linked to their diet. Energy drinks are a key part of that picture,” she noted.
In 2024, the British Dental Journal reported a sharp rise in enamel erosion and hypersensitivity in patients aged 15–25, with energy drink consumption being a leading factor. Some countries have already introduced age restrictions on purchasing energy drinks due to concerns over health and behaviour.
Tips to Minimise the Damage (If You Must)
Dr Chopra advises patients to avoid energy drinks altogether – but if consumed, to do so with caution:
- Use a straw to limit contact with teeth
- Don’t brush immediately after drinking – wait at least an hour to allow enamel to re-harden
- Rinse your mouth with water afterwards to help neutralise acidity
- Never sip over a long period – it prolongs the acid attack
- Choose sugar-free versions , though still acidic, they at least reduce sugar-related decay
Oral Health is Whole-Body Health
The warning comes amid growing evidence linking poor oral health to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline.
“Your mouth is the gateway to your overall health,” Dr Chopra says. “Neglecting it can have consequences far beyond just your smile.”
Whites Dental is calling for more public awareness on the dangers of high-acid drinks and encouraging schools, parents and young people to rethink their everyday choices.
“We wouldn’t let a child drink vinegar with sugar in it – but in many cases, that’s effectively what energy drinks are. The sooner we start treating them as the serious health hazard they are, the better.”