Perhaps you’re not a wine or beer drinker, but you enjoy celebrating the holidays with family and friends guzzling one soda after another. According to a Gallup poll, about 48% of people in the United States drink at least one soda every single day. You’re probably well aware that the sugar in regular sodas can pack on the pounds. Other compelling research says that even diet versions of various carbonated beverages are just as bad (or even worse) for your waistline. Artificial sweeteners may trigger cravings for fatty foods. How about your teeth? Between sugar and sugar-free, which type of soda is better for your teeth? Houston dentist, Dr. Deborah Gennero, doesn’t have good news about either choice in terms of your dental health.
What’s So Bad about Soda?
Sodas have proven to be one of the most significant cavity inducing consumables. Sugar or no sugar, soft drinks contain acids which will damage your tooth enamel. This makes your teeth into prime targets for the bacteria that cause tooth decay. About 50% of school age children in America consume at least one soda per day. However, reports of teenagers binging on as many as 12 cans of soda daily don’t seem all that shocking. Unfortunately, poor habits such as these in childhood can potentially lead to a lifetime of dental issues and challenges.
Combatting Soda Induced Tooth Decay
One way to keep teeth healthy is to stay away from the foods and drinks that can harm your smile. If you can develop a taste for good old H2O, you might find yourself hooked on a beverage that not only is great for your teeth (and overall health) but is also calorie free. And, of course, water is free, scoring the essential liquid even more points. If you do indulge in an occasional soda, try to make a habit of rinsing with water afterwards to flush out the sugar and acid residue. Wait about 30 minutes to brush so that the enamel on your teeth can recover from the acid assault.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Houston General Dentist
Dr. Gennero offers the latest in general dentistry. Contact our Houston dentist office by calling (281) 578-6200.
