A Safer Soft Drink?
Yearning for a soft drink? Reach for a root beer. Exposing teeth to soft drinks, even briefly, causes dental erosion—and longer exposure can cause enamel loss. But root beer does not contain phosphoric or citric acids that harm teeth, according to a study in General Dentistry, the journal of the Academy of General Dentistry. A lot of people think sugar is the only threat from soft drinks. But even diet drinks contain phosphoric acid, citric acid, or both, which can cause dental erosion. Many of the soft drinks that people consume may contain 9 to 12 teaspoons of sugar and have an acidity that approaches the level of battery acid. Having soft drinks only with meals and using a straw, which reduces soda’s contact with teeth, may help prevent problems.2
1 “Commercial Soft Drinks: pH and in vitro Dissolution of Enamel.” P. Jain et al. General Dentistry. March/April 2007, pp. 150–154.
2 “Root Beer May Be ‘Safest’ Soft Drink for Teeth.” Academy of General Dentistry, March 16, 2007. www.agd.org/support/articles/?ArtID=1930 Accessed 2008.
Author:
McIver, Steve
Date Last Reviewed:
10/13/2008
Date Last Modified:
10/13/2008
The views represented by this article are that of the author and not of Delta Dental. This article is provided for information only. Please consult with a licensed dentist to discuss the best way for you to improve or maintain your oral health.
In all cases, specific group contract provisions, benefits, limitations and exclusions take precedence over oral health recommendations given here. We recommend that you contact your dental benefits carrier to determine the specific limitations and exclusions for your group.