When you're grabbing a quick drink on the go, bottled water is often the natural choice—it's convenient, refreshing, and feels like the healthy option. But did you know that not all bottled waters are as kind to your teeth as they are to your thirst?
Recent research has shed light on some surprising risks linked to bottled water, particularly the acidity levels found in many popular brands. Before you take your next sip, here's what you need to know and why Summer Springs is the better choice for your health.
Is Your Bottled Water Harming Your Teeth?
A study published in the Journal of Water and Health tested 42 different bottled water brands available in Australia. The results were concerning:
- 81% of the waters tested had pH levels below 6.7, meaning they could erode the dentine—the layer beneath your enamel.
- 74% had pH levels below 5.5, putting your enamel at risk too.
Why does this matter? Your teeth are naturally protected by enamel, but when the pH in your mouth drops below these critical thresholds, your enamel begins to weaken and erode. Over time, this can lead to tooth sensitivity, discolouration, and even cavities.
Unsurprisingly, flavoured and sparkling waters were found to be the most acidic. Shockingly, even plain spring water from well-known brands including Mt Franklin, Pump and Cool Ridge, among others, often fell into the "erosive" category.
Why pH Balance Matters
The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 (highly acidic) to 14 (highly alkaline). A pH of 7 is neutral, which is ideal for maintaining a healthy balance in your mouth.
Consuming acidic bottled water regularly can lower the pH in your mouth, creating the perfect environment for enamel erosion. The effects aren't immediate but build up over time. And because many Australians prefer the convenience of 600ml bottles for hydration throughout the day, the risks of prolonged exposure to acidic water are even greater.
How Summer Springs Protects Your Smile
At Summer Springs, we believe hydration should support your health—not compromise it. That’s why we’re committed to providing water that’s not just refreshing but also naturally kind to your teeth.
Here’s why Summer Springs is different:
- pH-Balanced Water: Our 600ml bottled water has a naturally neutral pH, meaning it’s safe for your enamel and dentine.
- No Hidden Acids: Unlike some brands that use artificial acids or flavourings to enhance taste, Summer Springs water is pure and untouched—just as nature intended.
- Sourced from Pristine Springs: Our water comes directly from carefully selected springs in regional NSW, ensuring every bottle delivers clean, crisp hydration.
- Australian Owned and Operated: We’re proud to be locally owned, supporting Australian communities with every bottle.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Teeth
If you’re reaching for bottled water regularly, here are a few tips to keep your smile safe:
- Choose pH-Balanced Water: Opt for brands like Summer Springs that prioritise oral health with a neutral pH. Summer Springs 600ml Spring Water has a pH of 7.3 (tested October 2024).
- Avoid Flavoured and Sparkling Waters: These are often the most acidic and can erode your enamel quickly.
- Drink, Don’t Sip: Prolonged sipping increases your teeth’s exposure to acidity. Instead, drink in one go and follow up with plain water to rinse.
- Educate Yourself: Know what’s in your water. Read labels and choose brands that prioritise transparency.
Why Choose Summer Springs?
For Australians who value health and hydration, Summer Springs offers the best of both worlds. Our 600ml bottled water is perfect for busy days, whether you're heading to the office, hitting the gym, or tackling errands. With every sip, you can trust that you’re staying hydrated without putting your teeth at risk.
Healthy Hydration, the Australian Way
Bottled water should do more than quench your thirst—it should support your health. Unfortunately, many brands fall short, with hidden acidity levels that can harm your teeth over time.
Summer Springs is proud to lead the way in offering pure, pH-balanced water that’s gentle on your teeth, refreshing for your body, and 100% Australian-owned. Next time you’re reaching for a 600ml bottle, make the smart choice for your health and your smile.
References
Journal of Water and Health - Study on pH of Bottled Water in Australia
Link: https://iwaponline.com/jwh/article/20/5/871/88454/The-pH-of-bottled-water-commercially-available-in
American Dental Association - Dietary Acids and Your Teeth
Link: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/dietary-acids-and-your-teeth
Australian Government Department of Health - Food Standards Code
Link: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2017C00721
World Health Organization - Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality
Link: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549950
Harper et al. (2021) - Acid-Induced Demineralisation of Human Enamel
Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actbio.2020.04.045
Cochrane et al. (2009) - Erosive Potential of Beverages Sold in Australian Schools
Link: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1834-7819.2009.01126.x
