Do you drink soda every day? How about diet soda? Well, this Harte Dental article is for you! According to the American Dental Association, soda consumption is one of the leading causes of tooth decay, and regular consumption can eventually lead to tooth loss!
How bad is soda for your teeth?
The two main dental side effects that occur as a result of drinking soda are erosion and cavities.
When you drink soda, the sugars (in the drink) and the bacteria (in your mouth) combine to form acids which attack your enamel and erode it, weakening your teeth. Over time, these acids continue to wear down your enamel, leading to damage to the surface of the tooth, which become holes known as cavities.
When you drink soda, the sugars (in the drink) and the bacteria (in your mouth) combine to form acids which attack your enamel and erode it, weakening your teeth. Over time, these acids continue to wear down your enamel, leading to damage to the surface of the tooth, which become holes known as cavities.
If you do not practice good oral hygiene and the tooth decay spreads, you could eventually lose the tooth, which is why you should see our award-winning doctors, hygienists, and assistants here at Harte Dental at least twice a year.
Is diet soda a safer alternative?
No. Diet sodas also contain acids that can wear down your enamel and cause tooth decay. Every time you take a sip of soda, the acids attack your teeth for several minutes and start over again when you take another sip, which means your teeth are constantly under attack if you consume a lot of soda.
Protecting your teeth from damage
Stop drinking soda completely
The best way to protect your teeth from damage is to give up soda — which is easier said than done for most people. If you have a hard time giving up soda, there are a few things you can do to protect your teeth, including:
Drinking in moderation
If giving up soda is difficult, you can try to wean yourself off the sugary drink by consuming it moderately. If you are used to drinking four cans of soda a day, try reducing the number to one a day
Use a straw
Using straws to drink your soda reduces your teeth’s contact with the sugar, limiting the damaging effects
Consume soda quickly
Consume soda quickly
Since the acids attack your teeth for 20 minutes after each sip, there is no point in taking your time when you are drinking soda. Try to finish the drink as quickly as possible to reduce the damage the sugar and acid do to your teeth
Wash mouth with water after drinking
Wash mouth with water after drinking
Rinsing your mouth with water after drinking soda helps to get rid of the sugars and acids left in your mouth
Drinking soda is bad for your oral health because it can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss. If you still drink soda and want to stop, talk to us today to find out what your best options are.