It might shock you to know that soft drinks can cause as much tooth erosion as illegal drugs like meth or cocaine. Research from Temple University has discovered that tooth enamel damage is strikingly similar in those who consume these dangerous drugs and those who indulge in soft drinks frequently.
The Corrosive Power of Soft Drinks
Tooth erosion occurs when the acid in soft drinks wears down tooth enamel, which serves as a protective outer layer on our teeth. Without this enamel, a tooth is more susceptible to cavities, cracking, sensitivity, and discoloration.
Researchers studied the damage in the mouths of three individuals: one meth addict, one frequent cocaine user, and one diet soda enthusiast. All three subjects had a history of poor dental hygiene and neglecting dental appointments. Shockingly, the study revealed severe tooth erosion damage in all three participants.
Mohamed A. Bassiouny, the study’s author, stated, “Each person experienced severe tooth erosion caused by the high acid levels present in their ‘drug’ of choice—meth, crack, or soda. The citric acid present in both regular and diet soda is known to have a high potential for causing tooth erosion.”
The diet soda drinker in the study had been consuming two liters of diet soda daily for over three years. The fact that diet soda caused similar harm as hard drugs should be alarming for consumers, especially those who believe that soda is harmless.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Teeth
Now that you’re aware of the harmful effects of soda on your teeth, you may be wondering how you can protect your smile and still satisfy your cravings. Let’s walk through a few steps in preventing and mitigating soda damage.
1. Cut Down on Soda Consumption
The most effective way to prevent soda damage is to reduce or even eliminate soda from your diet. Replace soda with healthier alternatives like water, tea, or infused water using fresh fruit and herbs. Not only will you protect your teeth, but you will also reduce the additional health risks associated with excessive sugar and chemicals found in soda.
2. Drink with a Straw
When you do indulge in your favorite soda, use a straw to direct the drink past your teeth. Make sure the straw is positioned towards the back of your mouth rather than resting on your teeth. This step will minimize the contact between the acidic soda and your teeth, reducing potential enamel damage.
3. Wait to Brush
Surprisingly, it’s best to wait for at least 30 minutes to an hour after drinking soda before brushing your teeth. Brushing immediately after soda consumption can actually cause more harm, as the acid is still actively weakening tooth enamel. Waiting will allow your saliva to neutralize the acid and prevent further damage.
4. Rinse with Water
Rinsing your mouth with water immediately after drinking soda can help wash away the lingering acids. Water can dilute the acid content and stimulate saliva production, which has a natural ability to neutralize acid in the mouth.
5. Chew Sugarless Gum
Stimulate saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum after consuming soda. Research published in the Journal of the Irish Dental Association found that the increased saliva flow associated with chewing gum helped to remineralize the dental enamel and protect against cavities. Opt for sugar-free gum with xylitol, a sugar substitute that can alleviate dry mouth and reduce oral bacteria.
6. Practice Proper Dental Hygiene
A consistent dental hygiene routine is essential for keeping your teeth healthy and strong. Brush and floss daily, use mouthwash, and schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Maintaining good oral health habits will help minimize the damaging effects of soda on your teeth.
The Bottom Line
Though soda may not be an illegal drug like meth or crack, its corrosive effects on tooth enamel can be just as devastating. By taking steps to reduce soda consumption and instilling proper dental hygiene practices, you can protect your teeth from the harmful acids found in these tempting drinks. Ultimately, the best way to keep your radiant smile is by giving up soda altogether, as even diet variations can cause significant damage. Choose healthier, refreshing alternatives, and your teeth will thank you.
