Common sense say sugar lead to oral cavity but it actually the acid that produce by the bacteria that lead to oral cavity. Any drinks that are acidic, whether they contain sugar or not can also be bad for our teeth. The acid actually attacks the teeth by dissolving the outer layers of tooth enamel. In a study testing twenty-three different types of sugar free drinks, including soft drinks and sports drinks. The study found that those contain acidic additives and those with low pH levels cause measurable damage to tooth enamel, even if they have no sugar. Interesting this study also found flavored mineral waters can cause a measurable loss of tooth enamel too. Expert suggest quenching thirst with water is a much healthier alternative to soft drinks or any sugar free beverage.
So if you see any sugar-free confectionery products in the grocery store that are labelled 'toothfriendly', do not trust the label because when tested they were found to be erosive to enamel.
Reference: Briefing paper: The potential of sugar-free beverages, sugar-free confectionery and sports drinks to cause dental erosion, Oral Health Cooperative Research Centre, Melbourne, Australia, published online 26 November 2015.
This is really interesting and reminds me of a mythbuster! My dentist taught me that teeth coloring is due to proteins and how light reflects off the proteins, producing a certain pigmentation. I wonder if these acidic drinks cause the proteins to denature and whether this improves white teeth or further yellows our teeth?
ReplyDeleteGood grief! I looked up the pH of Coke Zero and it is 3.18! I had no idea. It was of note that in the paper you referenced they concede that while eliminating sugary drinks in school may reduce obesity, diabetes, and cavities it doesn't help at all to replace them with diet drinks due to enamel erosion. I also didn't know that regular Coca-Cola has a pH of 2.52. I knew they were acidic but not that much.
ReplyDeleteI hate to say it, but maybe the best thing for kids while in school is to let them drink just water. After reading all this I might just be changing my soda habits...
http://www.sheltondentistry.com/patient-information/ph-values-common-drinks/
Sugar free drinks such as sodas, colas, sports drinks, pure orange juice and wine may cause dental erosion, but you can help protect your teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a thorough toothpaste, flossing regularly, using mouthwash and regular visit to your dentist.
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