Ana Margarita Olar | Vigorbuddy.com
Carbonated drinks include fizzy drinks, soft drinks, sodas, spring water, beer and some types of wine.
These are manufactured by absorbing carbon dioxide from the ground. Another process is through fermentation or artificially carbonated. A 2015 study conducted by DOST in the Philippines shows that carbonated drinks contributed 17% to mean daily energy intake of preschool and school-aged children.
There are many health issues about the consumption of carbonated drinks. One of these issues is their damaging effect on teeth:
SUGAR CONTENT
When it comes to dental problems, expert says it is not how much sugar is consumed. It is about how long the teeth are exposed to sugar. The sugar content in many carbonated beverages exposes consumers to tooth damage.
ACID CONTENT
Most carbonated drinks contain carbonic acid, citric acid, and phosphoric acid. Any of these acids can cause damage to the teeth and to the stomach lining as well.
DENTAL EROSION
When the teeth are exposed to sugar, the naturally occurring bacteria in our mouth will feed on sugar. This process will produce damaging acids. Then, the product itself contains several forms of acids. All of these can erode the tooth enamel.
But as a defense, the calcium saliva will re-mineralize the teeth. But with an increased consumption, it may not be enough and lead to DENTAL EROSION. It is the situation of a chronic loss of dental hard tissue that is chemically etched away from the tooth surface by acid.
DENTAL CAVITIES
Excessive consumption of soft drinks can damage not only the outer part of the teeth. It can penetrate the inner layer or dentin and even the composite fillings. This is called DENTAL CARIES OR CAVITIES.
REDUCED CALCIUM INTAKE
Carbonated drinks supplant calcium-rich drinks in the diet. Children exposed to soft drinks at an early age will have less appetite for milk. This is the same with the adolescents.
Pregnant women who consume soft drinks will have the ill effects of soft drinks on her body. The fetus in her womb might also suffer dental problems later in life.
It is proven that carbonated drinks bring nothing but trouble on our body and our teeth. There are several ways to avoid the damaging effects of carbonated drinks on our teeth. But it is much better if we reduce or avoid these drinks. A healthy diet and proper oral hygiene can ensure our oral health.