Today, soda is one of the most popular beverages in America. It’s inexpensive and readily available at just about every store you go to. However, it has been linked to several oral health problems. Without proper dental care, these issues can lead to tooth loss and expensive surgery. Let’s explore why soda is bad for your teeth and why it may be best to eliminate this beverage from your diet if you want to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Soda has a tremendous amount of sugar in it. The average 12 ounces can contain about 40 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to 10 teaspoons.

When you drink soda, the sugar coats your teeth and provides an ideal environment for cavity-causing bacteria to grow. The more often you drink soda, the greater chance you have of developing a cavity.

Soda is also high in acidity, which can further damage your teeth. Over time, this acid can erode your tooth enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to decay.

Soda also contains phosphoric acid, which can cause tooth erosion. Phosphoric acid reacts with the calcium in your teeth to create a weak spot. With time, the erosion can grow and cause a crack.

There is also something called a dry mouth from drinking too much soda. When you don’t have enough saliva in your mouth to neutralize the sugar from foods or beverages, it causes accelerated plaque buildup and cavities. A dry mouth can also encourage the growth of bacteria that cause gum disease.

Over the past few years, there has been increasing research linking soda with obesity and other health problems. One study showed that people who drank one or more sodas per day were 27 percent more likely to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome than those who didn’t drink soda. This is a cluster of symptoms that raise your risk for conditions such as:

Now that you know why soda is bad for your teeth, it’s best to avoid it altogether. Instead, try drinking water with a squeeze of lemon or lime, unsweetened tea, or pure fruit juices.

However, if you already have a cavity, South Holston Dental Designs can help. Whether it is a dental cleaning, fluoride treatment, or even filling, we can help you prevent or stop the pain and eat more comfortably.  Contact us today to make an appointment or give us a call at 276-762-2323.

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