Reviewed by Dr. Amir Davoody, board-certified orthodontist (ABO Diplomate).

Soda, fruit juice, and coffee can all be hard on your teeth, especially during orthodontic treatment. It might feel like water is your only safe option, but there are a few tooth-friendly drinks that quench your thirst without working against your treatment. Here are the best ones, from Dr. Amir Davoody at Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics.

Milk

Milk is a great source of calcium, which helps maintain and strengthen tooth enamel, and it supports strong bones too. If you are lactose intolerant, calcium-fortified soy milk offers similar benefits. Keep in mind that milk contains natural sugar, so if it sits on the teeth too long it can still contribute to decay; rinse with water or brush after.

Green and herbal teas

Black tea, like coffee and red wine, can stain teeth, but green and herbal teas do not, and they can actually help your oral health. They contain compounds called polyphenols that help fight the bacteria on teeth. The best way to drink tea with braces is plain, with no sugar or honey; if you want it sweeter, use a sugar-free sweetener.

Water

The most obvious choice is also one of the best. Water keeps you hydrated and helps your mouth produce saliva, its first line of defense against the sugars, acids, and bacteria left behind by food. Drinking water after every meal is a simple way to protect your teeth until you can brush, which matters even more with braces, where food gets trapped easily.

Good drinks are just the start

Healthy drinks are one piece of caring for your smile during treatment. Keep up daily brushing and flossing, and keep your scheduled visits. For more, see our braces care guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best drink for teeth with braces? Water, for hydration and saliva. Milk and green or herbal tea (unsweetened) are good options too.

Are sports drinks or juice okay? They are high in sugar and acid, so limit them and rinse with water afterward.

Does tea stain braces? Black tea can stain; green and herbal teas are gentler. Either way, drink them unsweetened.

Keep your smile healthy during treatment

If you have questions about diet and your braces, we are glad to help. Schedule a visit with Dr. Amir Davoody.

Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics
5311 Kirby Dr Ste 209, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 521-2727