There’s no doubt that ice-cold sodas are absolutely refreshing, especially on a hot summer day. The cool, fizzy drinks are preferred by a lot of people around the world; but at times, too preferred. Several individuals seem to have a penchant for choosing sugary sodas over water or any other beverage. However, they don’t know that what they’re doing is dental suicide. Writing for LiveScience.com, contributor Robin Lloyd explains why
The erosive potential of colas is 10 times that of fruit juices in just the first three minutes of drinking, a study last year showed. The latest research, published in Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) journal General Dentistry, reports that drinking any type of soft drink hurts teeth due to the citric acid and/or phosphoric acid in the beverages.
A localDallas, PA dentist would normally advise against cola consumption due to two of the most common substances present in such beverages: citric and phosphoric acids. Though concentrated in amounts not extremely potent during the first few servings of sodas, such acids are known to be more damaging to teeth than the sugar the drinks contain.
Citric acid is found in numerous fruits, giving them their characteristic sour taste. Very few are allergic to citric acid; enough reason why it’s extensively used in sodas, candies, and other food items. Also known as “sour salt,” citric acid is available almost everywhere—online, in grocery stores, etc.
Like similar substances, citric acid is corrosive in excess amounts. Citric acid slowly dissolves the tooth enamel, inching closer into the sensitive pulp inside and triggering the conventional sharp pain. Once the decay worsens, it can only be treated with a root canal procedure, usually accompanied by Veneers—thin layers of porcelain fitted over the surface of a tooth with a damaged enamel, intended to protect the sensitive pulp inside and cover up the physical damage left behind.
Phosphoric acid, on the other hand, works exactly the same as citric acid—albeit much more potent than the latter. A study published in the 2007 edition of the General Dentistry journal proved that phosphoric acid is corrosive even at low levels. Phosphoric acid is an inorganic compound unlike citric acid, which may explain its greater potency.
People who have been drinking too much soda or carbonated drinks need not worry, as it’s not too late to save their teeth. An experienced Dallas, PA cosmetic dentist from practices such as Back Mountain Dental could skillfully treat the pain and repair the damage excessive soda-drinking has done to their teeth.
