Does soda really hurt my teeth as much as they say?

Sugar is everywhere nowadays…in the foods you eat and in many of the beverages you consume. Soda is definitely no exception.

On average a 12-ounce can of soda contains 39 grams of sugar. So if you have multiple cans of soda per day, multiply that number and the results will surely astound you.

If you drink sugar-laden soda, will it harm your teeth? Will soda hurt your teeth or is it a myth? 

Soda is not a healthy, smart decision for adults and kids alike. There are so many other healthier drink alternatives, including water, hot tea, and unsweetened fruit juice.

So why does everyone say that soda is bad for you?

Well, aside from not having any nutritional value whatsoever, soda is harmful to your teeth. When the bacteria in our mouths mingle with sugar, acid forms. That acid will damage your teeth by causing cavities.

Bottom line: avoid soda.

And if you’re wondering whether or not energy drinks are bad for your teeth, read our recent blog post!

Choose water instead of soda or other sugary drinks

Water is so good for your teeth and your body. Why is water good for your teeth you ask?

• Water keeps your mouth clean. It flushes away bacteria and particles so they don’t sit on your teeth and cause cavities or other dental problems. Also, if there’s any acid in your mouth caused by bacteria, the water will dilute it and help flush it away.

• Water helps fight dry mouth. When people lack a sufficient amount of saliva, drinking water can help fight off dry mouth.

• Water helps to strengthen your teeth. If you drink water that contains fluoride, your teeth will get an extra boost of cavity prevention. Fluoride can help fight off tooth decay. If needed, you can get your water tested to see how much fluoride it contains.

• Water has zero calories. Soda and other sugar drinks contain calories and lots of sugar, but water is the opposite — no calories and no sugar. And, actually, water can help you lose weight, too.

So what should you do now? 

Switch from soda to water!

And after you make that switch, call your dentist for a checkup appointment. Your dentist will check the condition of your teeth and gums to see if cavities or other problems exist.

Your dentist can also recommend several preventative dental services to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.

If you live in or near Alpharetta, GA, please call Dr. Brett Silverman at Advanced Cosmetic and Family Dentistry for an appointment. You can schedule your appointment here.

We look forward to meeting you.

Sources: 

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-oral-health/what-does-soda-do-to-your-teeth

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition/food-tips/sugary-drinks

https://www.verywellfit.com/guess-how-much-sugar-is-in-a-can-of-soda-2506919

Posted by Advanced Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
4205 North Point Parkway, Building D, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 551-6864