Do you drink a large amount of soda in an average week?
I've decided to give you important information on how soda may cause decay ( cavities ) and what to do should you want to reduce your intake of pop.
Lets begin by outlining how soda may cause cavities.
* Acid is produced in your mouth when the sugar in soda combines with the bacteria that lives in your mouth.
*Acid does exist in "diet" or "sugar-free" pop.
*The main cause of weakening tooth enamel is the acid in soft drinks, whether they contain sugar or not!
*Acid attacks your teeth with each episode lasting about 20 minutes.
*Each sip of soda initiates the attack again
*Continuous acid attacks weaken your tooth enamel.
*The damaged enamel invites the oral bacteria to cause decay
*Acid is particularly damaging in the areas of gum recession. This phenomenon exposes the underlying root surfaces; these are highly susceptible to tooth decay. Adults are especially prone to this type of attack.
SODA TRIVIA
+ In year's past a soda bottle was 6.5 ounces. Today, the standard can is 12 ounces and at times can be found in 20 ounce sizes
+Middle and High Schools are funded generously by soda companies to encourage their use of these beverages.
+Today, teens and young adults consume significantly more soda that years past...often replacing milk.
+Cavities caused by soda are often found on tooth surfaces not protected by sealants. These restorations only protect the chewing surfaces of teeth.
+Soda has no nutiritonal value. It's composed of mainly sugar, acids, and additives/preservatives.
+ 20% of all toddlers drink pop.
+Diabetes, Osteoporosis, and obesity are linked to soda consumption....not just cavities!
+Larger container sizes mean more calories, sugar, and acids!
HOW TO REDUCE CAVITIES
* Get regular examinations and cleanings to remove acid producing bacteria
* Drink lots of water
* After drinking sugar containing beverages, rinse your mouth out with water to dilute the sugar content
* Utilize a straw to minimize the exposure of sugar to your teeth.
* Do not drink sugar or soda before bedtime.
*Do not sip the sugar or soda for prolonged periods of time.
* Use a flouride toothpaste to protect your teeth.
* Drink very little soda...or in moderation.
Frequent soda drinkers ( many consume upto a dozen, or more, cans a day ) usually present with a specific decay pattern on their teeth. The damage, when heavy, is very destructive and apparent along all surfaces of the dentition. Sweetened pop is as damaging to teeth as cigarettes are to lungs.
I ask that you encourage the consumption of healthy alternatives such as milk or water. Please ensure you are making healthy choices for yourselves and for those who rely on your wisdom and care. I invite you to contact me should you have questions on how to improve your diet so as to encourage a healthy and beautiful smile.
Until next time...keep smiling!
While dentists will often do everything possible to save a tooth no matter the age of the patient, there are some situations where tooth extraction is necessary. When it comes to removing teeth, there are two different types of extractions a dentist or oral surgeon can use depending on the reason for removal: Simple extraction…
Choosing a general dentist to address gum disease is essential. General dentists undergo many years of training in order to learn how to provide their patients with optimal dental care services. One of the more important services they offer is dental check-ups, as this type of dental appointment is one that can help prevent a…
We are open!! We welcome you back.
Please read below our safety precautions that were taken to enhance the safety of you and our team while in our office.
Our upgraded safety enhancements EXCEED our already stringent infection control and universal precautions. Because your safety, and that of our team, is our greatest priority, we have surpassed OSHA and CDC recommendations, creating an environment conducive to bringing you comfort and peace of mind!!
