Pop, soda, cola, no matter what you call it, it is one of the most consumed beverages in the world. More than 15 billion gallons were sold in 2000. That averages to one 12 ounce can per man, women and child every day.
Soft drinks have emerged as one the most significant dietary sources of tooth decay today. The acids and acid sugar byproducts in soft drinks soften tooth enamel and contribute to the formation of cavities. The erosive potential of colas is 10 times that of fruit juices in just the first 3 minutes of drinking. Drinking any type of soft drink hurts teeth due to the citric and phosphoric acids found in them. Phosphoric acid keeps the fizz, (which is also harmful to your bones) but also dissolves the calcium out of the tooth’s enamel, leaving the tooth surface soft and unprotected.
Sugar-free drinks account for 14 percent of the soft drink consumption and are less harmful, but they are still acidic and cause some of the problems.
Children and adolescents aren’t the only ones at risk. Long term consumption of these drinks has a cumulative effect on the tooth enamel. As we live longer we are more likely to experience problems.
When it comes to your teeth the worst thing you can do is to sip a soda throughout the day. If you find it hard to give up it up try to change your habits, Drink more water, brush regularly, rinse with mouthwash, or have the drink with a meal and then swish with water after. It is better to drink the soft drink at one sitting verses sipping it and changing your oral ph with each sip. Changing or keeping the ph in your mouth high is what helps contribute to the oral problems we see as dental professionals.
It is important to inform your dental care team if you or your child is consuming a lot of soft drinks and work with them to help change these habits so that you and your family can obtain and maintain your dental health.
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