SOFT drinks have emerged as one of the most significant dietary sources of tooth decay, affecting people of all ages. Acids and acidic sugar by-products in soft drinks soften tooth enamel, contributing to the formation of cavities.

In extreme cases, softer enamel combined with improper brushing, grinding of the teeth or other conditions can lead to tooth loss.

Sugar-free drinks, which account for only 14 per cent of all soft drink consumption, are less harmful. However, they are acidic and can still potentially cause problems.

HOW SOFT DRINKS HURT YOUR TEETH

When you drink soda, the sugars within interact with bacteria in your mouth to form acid. This acid attacks your teeth. Both regular and sugar-free sodas also contain their own acids, and these attack the teeth too. If you sip all day, your teeth are under constant attack.

There are two main dental effects of drinking soda: erosion and cavities.

Erosion begins when the acids in soft drinks encounter the tooth enamel, which is the outermost protective layer on your teeth. Their effect is to reduce the surface hardness of the enamel.

While sports drinks and fruit juices can also damage enamel, they stop there.

Soft drinks, on the other hand, can also affect the next layer, dentin, and even composite fillings. This damage to your tooth enamel can invite cavities. Cavities, or caries, develop over time in people who drink soft drinks regularly. When combined with poor oral hygiene, the results can be disastrous.

WHAT TO DO

Children, adolescents and adults can all benefit from reducing the number of soft drinks they consume, as well as from available oral care therapies. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Substitute different drinks: Stock the refrigerator with beverages containing less sugar and acid such as water, milk and 100 per cent fruit juice. Drink them yourself and encourage your kids to do the same.

2. Rinse with water: After consuming a soft drink, flush your mouth with water to remove vestiges of the drink that can prolong exposure of tooth enamel to acids.

3. Use fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse: Fluoride reduces cavities and strengthens tooth enamel, so brushing with a fluoride-containing toothpaste and rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash also can help. Your dentist can recommend an over-the-counter mouthwash or prescribe a stronger one, depending on the severity of the condition. He or she also can prescribe a higher fluoride content toothpaste.

4. Get professionally applied fluoride treatment: Your dental hygienist can apply fluoride in the form of a foam, gel or rinse.

Soft drinks are hard on your teeth. By reducing the amount you drink, practising good oral hygiene, and seeking help from your dentist and hygienist, you can counteract their effect and enjoy better oral health.

For the month of June, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa will be offering free dental exams with your cleanings. A $2,500.00 savings.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710. Like their Facebook page, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa, for an opportunity to take advantage of weekly specials.