Watch Out For Those Sugary Drinks

MAYBE WE ALL CALL IT BY A DIFFERENT NAME—soda, pop, soda pop, soft drinks… But it’s all the same thing when it comes to its effect on your teeth.

Sugary sodas have not only served up a portion of the nation’s obesity problems, but the acidic sugar byproducts soften your tooth enamel, leaving your teeth prone to more cavities. Also, when your tooth enamel is softer it makes brushing even harder on your teeth, creating an unwanted one/two punch.

We’ve had people ask us if there is any difference with sugar-free drinks (which only account for around 14% of all soda consumption). The truth is, they are less harmful than normal drinks, but can still cause unwanted acidic damage.

The amount of soft drinks we consume in the United States is continuing to increase dramatically, especially among children and teens. The problem is becoming so bad that the American Academy of Pediatrics has been talking about the dangers, and suggesting better guidelines for helping children create good beverage habits. Studies show that at least one in five children consumes a minimum of four servings of pop each day! Some teenages drink much, much more. And college students often study or socialize for hours on end while continually drinking soda.

What Can Be Done To Help?

• First off, reduce the amount you drink. Simple.
• Find substitutes you enjoy that are more healthy.
• Drinking more water will help take away your cravings for soda.
• If you do drink soda pop, rinse your mouth with water when you finish.
• Use fluoride toothpastes and/or mouth rinses.
• Don’t forget to schedule regular dental checkups.

Dr. Hammond and Dr. Ellis want to do everything possible to help you keep your beautiful smile for life. If you have questions about different beverages and their effect on your teeth, be sure to ask us. We love talking to you, our valued patients, about your oral health.

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