Do energy drinks affect my teeth?
By Dr. Brett Silverman | Jan 23, 2020 | General Oral Care
It is Monday morning, you’re at work and you are exhausted by the time 10am rolls around. What do you do?
Like a lot of people, you probably reach for a caffeinated beverage of some sort, whether it be a cold brew coffee, latte, or an energy drink.
Millions of Americans consume highly acidic energy drinks even though the medical community continues to raise health-related concerns.
But what a lot of consumers don’t know is that most energy drinks are bad for your teeth.
Why are energy drinks bad for your teeth?
In addition to the various forms of sugar, a lot of energy drinks contain citric acid. Over time, citric acid and a highly acidic environment strip the layers of enamel from the teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
Additionally, acid promotes bacterial growth in the mouth. And when you have lots of bacteria, you’re more likely to get gum disease or other dental issues.
As if gum disease and cavities aren’t bad enough, many energy drink consumers end up grinding their teeth since they’re so wired and hyped up on caffeine. Teeth grinding (known as bruxism) wears away the teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss or tooth breakage.
So this begs the question…
Why is citric acid used in energy drinks and other beverages? Because it extends shelf life and enhances flavor.
Unfortunately, your teeth suffer.
If you want some proof, check out this British man’s photos of his rotten teeth, which he says were damaged by his energy drink addiction.
Multiple-per-day energy drink consumption + poor oral care habits = rotten teeth
According to a 2019 study (source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/04/190429125416.htm), the added sugar found in many energy drinks on the market may increase a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cavities.
Pair the added sugar and citric acid with poor oral care habits (or not even brushing your teeth at all), and you’ll probably end up with rotten teeth.
The bottom line, if you’re going to consume an energy drink, brush your teeth soon thereafter. If you can’t brush right away, the least you can do is rinse your mouth with water (and then brush as soon as possible).
Now what?
If you drink multiple energy drinks every day without brushing your teeth 2-3 times per day, we highly encourage you to schedule a dentist appointment. If you live in or near Alpharetta, GA, call Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry to schedule your routine dental cleaning appointment.
Sources: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/energy-drinks-can-ruin-your-teeth
https://www.thehealthy.com/nutrition/energy-drinks-do-to-your-body/
Posted by Advanced Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
4205 North Point Parkway, Building D, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 551-6864