KANATA, ONTARIO- Shocking reports contending diet soda’s effect on teeth mirrors that of crack cocaine and methamphetamine have littered news outlets as of late – but is this assertion true? While the beverage certainly isn’t “good” for teeth, the foundation of the claims has been common knowledge for years. All acidic drinks have the potential to severely damage teeth.
The study published in the journal General Dentistry stated diet soda erodes the teeth in a similar manner as meth or cocaine. Questioning the legitimacy of the claim, some groups fired back by criticizing the study’s subjects. The research centered around three participants- a cocaine user, a meth user and a woman who consumed two liters of diet soda each day. While the woman’s teeth closely resembled the drug abusers’, the study admitted she already had poor oral hygiene and had not received professional dental care in more than 20 years.
No matter what side of the argument you’re on, we can draw two conclusions from the diet soda debacle. Acidic beverages have the potential to wrea
k havoc on the enamel and induce erosion, and regular dental care is key to achieving acceptable oral hygiene.
The acidic properties in drinks like soda, wine, lemonade and fruit juices slowly wear away at the enamel, leaving teeth susceptible to staining, erosion and the bacteria harbored in plaque. Good oral hygiene habits like adequate brushing, flossing and preventative dentistry visits can arm teeth against the damaging effects of acidity. After the consumption of such beverages, drinking plenty of water to rinse away lingering acids and sugars is highly encouraged.
Diet soda can undoubtedly harm teeth, but the damages similar to meth will likely only occur if the consumption is excessive and oral hygiene is neglected. Practicing good judgment while consuming acidic food and drink along with scheduling regular professional cleanings will ultimately determine the health of someone’s smile.
Kanata family dentistry Trillium Dental provides extensive teeth cleanings and fluoride treatments to help diet soda lovers, wine connoisseurs and avid juicers enjoy their favorite beverages in moderation while maintaining a healthy smile. If your teeth have already suffered from erosion and decay, Dr. Bartos (a Stittsville dentist) and Dr. Northcott provide cosmetic solutions such as dental veneers and implants, among others. To learn more, schedule a consultation at Trillium Dental today.