It’s no secret that many people around the world love soda. And for good reason; it’s a perfect, refreshing, bubbly drink for those hot summer days. But, consuming soda does have a price, especially when it comes to soda and teeth, as well as other parts of the body. Simply put, soda is bad for your teeth, and the rest of your body too. The effects of soda on teeth can lead to tooth decay and cavities, which if unchecked, can lead to serious, long-term dental health problems.
Composition of Soda and Its Effects on Teeth
When learning about the effects of soda on teeth, it’s important to know the composition of soda. The main concern with soda is its incredibly high sugar content. This high sugar content feeds harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to acid production that erodes enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. In addition, even sugar-free soda contains numerous harmful acids that can further damage your enamel. Some of these acids include phosphoric acid, citric acid, and carbonic acid. The combination of sugar and acid is detrimental to dental health and soda consumption significantly heightens these risks.
Consequences of Soda Consumption
Soda consumption has numerous adverse effects on your dental health. Frequent exposure to soda drastically increases your risk of cavities and related tooth decay. Moreover, tooth enamel erosion from soda leads to increased tooth sensitivity and vulnerability to further cavities and decay. Both these forms of decay often result in significant dental issues, which can lead to the need for drastic dental procedures such as veneers for damaged teeth, teeth whitening options, and dental sealing treatments.
Mitigating the Harmful Effects of Soda
Now that you know how harmful the effects of soda on teeth can be, it’s important to learn how you can mitigate the harm caused by mixing soda and teeth. First, and perhaps most importantly, reduce your soda intake. Sugar can be addictive, so this may be difficult, but your teeth will thank you. Try replacing soda with other drinks, ideally water, but even most fruit juices will be less harmful than soda. Additionally, try using a straw whenever you do drink soda to minimize contact with your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water afterward to prevent the soda from sticking to your teeth. Also, wait thirty to sixty minutes after drinking soda before brushing your teeth to avoid further tooth enamel erosion.
Professional Dental Solutions
Don’t fret if the effects of soda on teeth lead to the need for dental intervention. There are many professional dental treatments that can remedy the harmful effects of soda.
Veneers
Veneers can restore the appearance and function of teeth damaged by overconsumption of sodas. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells manufactured from tooth-colored materials. Your dentist will take impressions and models of your unique teeth to have veneers created to match the rest of your teeth. Keep in mind, your dentist may need to prepare your tooth surface for the application of the veneer to ensure a natural-looking outcome.
Teeth Whitening Options
There are many teeth whitening options that can reduce the effects of soda on teeth’s appearance. Several professional treatments for this are available, many of which can be done in one session and take less than one hour. State-of-the-art whitening techniques and technologies remove stains caused by soda, other foods or drinks, and even the natural aging process. Your dentist will ensure your gums and the rest of your mouth are protected since the chemicals used can be harsh in the wrong concentrations. With the right professional, teeth whitening is a safe procedure that provides immediate results.
Sealants
A third dental solution that can help fix the harmful effects of soda on teeth are dental sealants. They act as a sort of shield against further tooth enamel decay and the formation of cavities. This creates a barrier between the surface of the tooth and the harmful acids, sugars, and bacteria introduced to them by consuming soda. Dental sealants have the added advantage of being easier to clean and care for, as well. The sealants’ surfaces are easier to clean than a natural tooth, so brushing becomes more effective at mitigating further tooth enamel decay and cavity formation.
Conclusion
The effects of soda on teeth are incredibly harmful and detrimental to your dental health. These effects include tooth enamel erosion, decay, and cavity formation, all caused by the sugars and acids in sodas. Therefore, drinking soda in moderation while practicing good dental hygiene is imperative to preserving your teeth and oral health. Of course, there are many professional dental treatments that can help with the damage caused by overconsumption of soda, such as veneers, sealants, and teeth whitening procedures. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist.
