Sure plain seltzer’s got it all over colas, juices and sports drinks with their sugar, calories, added colors and artificial flavors. But a New York Time wellness Q&A from Sophie Egan reminds readers to look past the sparkle and fizz before increasing seltzer’s volume in your daily diet.

  • Remember what’s missing: fluoride and all its benefits. If you’re sparkle is bottled, it’s lacking fluoridation, that American Dental Association touts as “essential for maintaining long-term oral health.”

Option: If your tap water is fluoridated, try an in-home sparkling water maker (They save money and the environment!)

  • Check the label for citric acid. Egan notes in Ask Well, that though it’s not as erosive as classic soft drink ingredients, it “may be acidic enough to damage [tooth] enamel.”
    Option: Add vegetables or herbs, such as cucumber, mint or basil to plain sparkling water.