The College of Dentists of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has warned of the damage to oral health that the abuse of carbonated and energy drinks can cause because they are very acidic, which causes erosion of dental enamel, increased sensitivity and greater risk of cavities. The weakness that is generated in the teeth also makes them more prone to fractures.
The College of Dentists has explained that this type of product usually has a high caffeine and sugar content, with a PH of around 3. Demineralization occurs when the acidity is below a PH of 5.5, a figure that is considered the limit to protect our teeth.
Thus, an abuse of these drinks causes young people to compromise their present and future oral health, since the erosion is irreversible and, in addition, the natural remineralization capacity of the teeth decreases. Acidity can also affect restorations, for example, made with resin veneers.
One of the first signs is a yellower color of the teeth, as the enamel wears away and the dentin becomes transparent, while the most common symptom of this erosion is sensitivity.
According to the College of Dentists, the first recommendation is to avoid ingesting these products, since there is no better drink than water to quench thirst and obtain good hydration. In any case, it is preferable to drink energy and carbonated drinks with a straw and not to sip. It is important to rinse your mouth with water after eating or chew sugar-free gum to generate saliva, which will help us lower the acidity level.
If you have any doubts, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife College of Dentists recommends asking your regular dentist, who will be able to guide the best preventive and correct oral hygiene measures in each case.
