Soda is an accepted part of daily life. Found virtually everywhere, you don’t have to go far before you can quench your thirst with a cold, carbonated beverage. However, your favorite drink could be wreaking more havoc on your teeth than you might think, even if you choose a sugar free option. Recent studies have shown that soft drinks are now one of the most significant sources of tooth decay among every age. Between the rise in consumption, and the acids and sugar byproducts in soda, dentists are seeing more and more occurrences of tooth decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates that school age children consume anywhere between 1 and 4 servings a day, with teenagers drinking as many as 12 a day. Larger serving sizes also play a role in rise of cavities, increasing from 6.5 ounces in the 1950’s to 20 ounces in the 1990’s.
The harm soda can do to teeth goes beyond the simple occurrence of cavities, with some experts comparing soda to drinking corrosive battery fluid. Damage can be done within the first three minutes of consumption through the triple threat of sugar, phosphoric acid and staining. The sugar in soda is considered more damaging than other natural sugars, because it combines with bacteria on the teeth to create acid that can erode the enamel permanently. Phosphoric acid (in higher concentrations) is used by dentists to scour enamel in dental procedures, so the idea that you effectively rinse your mouth in it with every swallow should be concerning. Finally, soda adds layers of sugar to the teeth that attract bacteria which results in a yellowing effect, or worse. A study published in the March/April issue of General Dentistry showed terrifyingly similar corrosion on the teeth of a diet soda drinker as in that of a methamphetamine addict. Although this case is on the more extreme end of the scale, it is causing dental professionals to sound the alarm regarding the damage soda can do.
Does this mean that you have to leave the soda behind for your next picnic or barbeque? Not necessarily. Although the best solution overall would be to substitute water, milk or juice for carbonated beverages, there are some preventative measures you can take to reduce the effects when you do indulge. For instance, use a straw to reduce the amount of contact the beverage has with your teeth enamel. Also, you should rinse your mouth with water to eliminate reduce many of the sugars that may be lurking until you can get to a toothbrush. As always, regular brushing, flossing and dental check ups will go a long way toward keeping your teeth healthy.
Your smile is one of the first impressions you can give people, and it is worth the time and sacrifice to keep it healthy and bright. Foster good habits in your children to help strengthen a new generation of healthy teeth and white smiles.
Dr. Jake Taylor is a local dentist practicing in Billings, Montana. For more dental tips, click here to visit the Bridge Creek Dental Facebook page.