What Happens To Teeth When You Drink Soda?

Have you ever wondered if your daily consumption of soda is hurting your teeth? It is a known fact that Americans like to drink fun carbonated beverages, but what is the effect of soda on your teeth? Did you know it is one of the leading causes of tooth decay, regardless of whether you drink regular or diet, if not consumed in moderation? Daily soda drinking has even been linked to other health issues, such as diabetes, obesity, and osteoporosis. Read on to learn more about soda tooth decay from the team at Byers Station Dental and what Chester Springs, PA patients can do to protect their teeth.

What causes cavities?

Some Chester Springs, PA patients may think only children are at risk of developing tooth decay or cavities. However, all of us are at risk our whole lives. The good news is you can reduce your risk of what causes cavities with daily brushing and flossing at home and regular visits to the dentist. You can also lessen the risk of tooth decay with healthy lifestyle choices. Your teeth have a hard outer layer (enamel), a middle layer (dentin), and a center (pulp). Tooth decay is an oral disease that damages or breaks down teeth. Cavities, also called tooth decay, or caries, are damaged areas on the tooth's surface that develop into tiny holes or pits. They are caused by a combination of factors, such as:

• Frequent snacking throughout the day
• Sipping on surgery or acidic beverages
• Poor oral hygiene (not brushing for at least two minutes twice a day and flossing regularly)
• Not visiting the dentist for professional cleanings and exams

Does drinking soda ruin your teeth?

Soda pop is very acidic, whether it is regular or diet versions. When you drink these carbonated beverages, it combines with bacteria in the mouth, causing a harmful acid attack on your teeth that lasts about 20 – 30 minutes. These ongoing acid attacks weaken the protective tooth enamel, or hard outer surface, which can increase your chance of developing cavities. Like anything, carbonated beverages can be part of a balanced lifestyle when consumed in moderation. Here are some tips on how to keep teeth healthy and reduce soda tooth decay.

• Drink only one soda a day (or no more than 12 ounces)
• Drink water throughout the day
• Drink with a straw
• Swish your mouth with water after drinking a soda
• Floss regularly and brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Visit a dentist for regular dental exams and professional cleanings

What are the signs or symptoms of a cavity?

Once a cavity has formed, it won't go away and will only continue to grow in size. One bad cavity can lead to a second one, eventually causing the tooth decay to widen and deepen. Treating cavities is necessary to prevent infection, even tooth loss. If you are concerned you may have a cavity, reach out to one of our team members at Byers Station Dental to schedule an appointment. While the signs or symptoms of a cavity may vary, depending on the location and severity, here are some to be aware of:

• Tooth sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures
• Toothache or spontaneous pain
• Pain when you bite down or chew
• Visible holes or pits in your teeth
• Discoloration on the tooth's surface

Keeping your smile healthy with a dentist in Chester Springs, PA

Good oral health is an essential part of enjoying a healthy lifestyle, which means eating a balanced diet and limiting your soda consumption. Besides having an adverse effect on your body and weight, sugar and teeth don't mix well to maintain a healthy smile. At Byers Station Dental, we provide an array of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental services to our patients in Chester Springs, PA. If you are experiencing symptoms of a cavity, or have concerns about your oral health, contact our team or schedule an appointment online with one of our dental experts today.