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Tooth Rot Related to Soft Drinks

Tooth rot is the leading cause of toothaches and cavities. It's formed when sugar is consumed and not brushed away. Bacteria feeds on the sugar producing acid. The acid eats away the tooth causing toothaches, tooth loss and infection. Main causes are poor hygiene habits and the excessive intake of sugar.

  1. Soft Drinks and Tooth Decay

    • The consumption of soft drinks by teenagers and adults has increased drastically in the last few decades. The National Soft Drink Association reports that the intake of soft drinks is more than 600 12 oz. servings per person each year. According to MSNBC, adults consume 22 tsp. of sugar and teenagers consume 34 tsp. on average every day. Once the sugar is deposited on the teeth, it forms a layer of sticky clear plaque. If teeth are not brushed shortly after drinking soft drinks, bacteria begins to feed on the glucose, fructose and sucrose. This metabolic reaction produces acid as a waste product. The acid in turn dissolves the calcium in the enamel of the tooth. Soft drinks also contain acids like citric and phosphoric acid that further corrode teeth.

    Facts and Figures

    • In 2007, the Academy of General Dentistry reported that soft drink consumption harmed the teeth. Doctor of Dental Medicine, Dr. Ross explained, "My patients are shocked to hear that many of the soft drinks they consume contain 9 to 12 tsp. of sugar and have an acidity that approaches the level of battery acid." On an acidity scale, battery acid is ranked 1.0 while a cola is ranked at 2.39.

    Diseases

    • The most common symptom for tooth decay due to fizzy drinks is toothaches. When the enamel is eaten through, bacteria is able to cause an infection in the pulp of the tooth causing pain. The pain is made worse by eating very hot or cold foods, sweets, acidic drinks, brushing your teeth and breathing in cold air. Escalated symptoms include fever, swollen jaws and pus-filled abscesses.

    Prevention

    • To prevent tooth rot, improve your oral hygiene. Regularly brush your teeth after every meal. Use an electric toothbrush approved by the American Dental Association and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing helps to remove the food particles between the teeth to prevent buildup of plaque. Most importantly, limit your intake of sugar and acidic drinks to a bare minimum.

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