Sports drinks can be harmful - dentists warn

Dentists are warning high levels of sugar and acids in many sports drinks can have a harmful impact on a person's oral health.

Australian Dental Association’s Dr Peter Alldritt said players in active sports should stick to water to avoid erosion and tooth decay.

"People sometimes drink sports drinks thinking they are healthier than a soft drink," he said. "They can contain six to eight teaspoons of sugar in one drink, which is not far behind some soft drinks."

As part of Dental Health Week, an ADA survey of 1200 Australians revealed over 50 per cent of adults and around 30 per cent of children consume sports drinks every week, unaware of the health risks.

To avoid dental trauma, the campaign also highlights the importance of people playing active sport to wear mouthguards fitted by dentists.