These beverages contain acid which eats into tooth enamel. By using a straw, the drink comes into less contact with teeth. Consider using a clean paper towel to manually wipe your teeth. This removes plaque bacteria and left over food particles. Drink plenty of water after meals.
Water helps wash away food particles that bacteria feast upon.
Water also helps wash away soda and fruit juices which contain acids that can attack tooth enamel. Chew sugarless gum. The chewing actually stimulates saliva, our natural mouthwash. Saliva raises the pH of the mouth, neutralizing plaque acids. Chewing gum containing Xylitol actually prevents plaque bacteria from growing, further enhancing our oral health.