Soda is a common part of many people’s diets, with some drinking at least one to two cans every day. However, just one can of non-diet soda contains 8 to 13 teaspoons of sugar, which can increase your risk of developing several health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, and tooth decay. The following guide explains why dentists recommend limiting your soda intake and how to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of these beverages.

How Does Soda Damage Teeth?

Your mouth is always full of helpful bacteria. However, some can be harmful, interacting with sugar to form plaque, a sticky film that develops on teeth. Dental plaque can be difficult to remove once it hardens into tartar. 

Interactions between bacteria and sugar also produce acid. The amount of sugar in soft drinks keeps bacteria well-fed, especially if an individual drinks it daily. Acids destroy tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of the tooth. Over time, this can cause tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Dark-colored sodas can also stain teeth. 

What Can You Do to Mitigate These Effects?

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the harmful effects of soda without cutting it out of your diet entirely. Start by limiting how much you drink. Avoid more than one soda each day, and use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. 

Additionally, you should try to drink it quickly. Long, leisurely drinks prolong the interactions between bacteria and sugar, forming more plaque and acid. When you finish, rinse your mouth with water.

Consider only drinking soda with a meal. Chewing encourages saliva production, which washes away the beverage while breaking down the acid. Be sure to drink water with your meal as well.

Brushing your teeth can remove the remaining debris, but you should wait at least 30 minutes after finishing the drink. Since the acids from soda attack and weaken the enamel temporarily, brushing your teeth during this state can cause damage. In general, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily to remove particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

Routine exams and teeth cleanings allow your dentist to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar and check for signs of cavities, decay, and gum disease. With early detection, they can help you avoid further damage with treatments and dental care recommendations.

In addition to practicing at-home dental care to mitigate the effects of soda on your teeth and gums, schedule biannual appointments with Darr Dentistry of Thomasville, NC. For over 20 years, Dr. Pamela Johnson-Darr and her highly trained staff have provided exceptional care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. They offer a full range of services to help you maintain a healthy, glowing smile, including routine cleanings and exams, fillings, and gum disease treatment. Learn more about their services online, or call (336) 475-1614 to schedule an appointment with this dentist.