We’ve had countless patients here at Herman Family Dental ask this question. Afterall, soda has a pretty bad reputation for damaging dental health. Many wonder if we are exaggerating when we say that heavy soda consumption can ruin your smile.
Unfortunately for our soda-loving patients, the damaging effects of soda are absolutely true! In fact, researchers have found that drinking soda can be as corrosive to teeth as battery acid.
Why is Soda Bad for Dental Health?
While the sweet, bubbly taste of soda may provide a refreshing zing, it can be devastating for the health of your teeth and gums. The harmful ingredients in soda are largely to blame for its negative effects on dental health. The two most harmful ingredients include:
Sugar: Did you know that the average can of soda has around 40 grams of sugar? According to the American Heart Association, adults shouldn’t exceed more than 37 grams of added sugar per day, meaning that one can of soda is more than your day’s worth of sugar. In addition to the negative effects this can have on your overall health, excessive sugar consumption will also cause serious problems for your dental health.
When we consume sugar, bacteria in the mouth will metabolize these sugars and as a result, create an acidic substance as a bi-product. Acids in the mouth will eventually wear down the outer protective layer of the tooth, known as the tooth enamel. Without the protection of the tooth enamel, patients become increasingly susceptible to tooth decay, tooth fractures, and gum disease.
Phosphoric Acid: Acids created from bacteria aren’t the only corrosive property of soda. Phosphoric acid is often added to many popular sodas to add a tangy bite to the beverage. Like any acid, this ingredient will soften the tooth enamel and leave you susceptible to decay.
Although we understand that completely eliminating soda is an unrealistic task for many of our patients, there are still several ways you can protect your smile. Some of the best ways to minimize damage from soda include:
- Limiting the time frame your drink soda
- Rinsing your mouth with water after drinking soda
- Opting for sodas with less sugar
Contact Herman Family Dental
Whether you need dental treatment due to soda consumption or any other reason, we’re here to provide top-of-the-line care! Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Herman!