Soda drinkers, Beware!
The sugar and acid found in many sodas can be very damaging to the teeth. The sticky sugars break down into acids. Phosphoric and citric acids contribute to the acidity of sodas also, meaning diet sodas can be hazardous as well.
Saliva helps to neutralize acids and naturally cleanse our teeth, making water a better choice than a soda. The pH in our mouth is normally 6.2-7.0. At a pH of 5.2-5.5 or below, which is more acidic, the acids begin to soften and weaken the enamel. Each acid attack lasts about 20 minutes. It starts over again with each sip.
Here are a few examples of how some popular drinks compare:
For further comparisons on your favorite beverages, click here or
visit Sip All Day Get Decay.
What's a six pack a day soda fiend to do?
Whether you drink one or six:
- Dont sip - It's better to slam it down and get the acid attack over or better yet, drink soda with a full meal...and don't supersize it!
- If you drink soda by itself, chew sugarless gum afterward to increase your saliva flow.
- And always Drink More Water!
