Harmful Effects of Energy Drinks on Your Teeth

Energy drinks are becoming an increasingly popular choice for teens and adults. Unfortunately, while these drinks can be enjoyable and provide an extra boost of energy, they can also seriously damage your teeth.

Even if you are committed to good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing daily and visiting our North Hollywood dentist twice a year, energy drinks can cause enamel erosion, tooth decay and gum disease. These drinks are a potent blend of sugar, juices, natural acids and artificial dyes. In fact, this blend may be more damaging to your teeth than soft drinks, juices and other favorite drinks.

The acid alone can damage your teeth by weakening and eroding the enamel. The sugar provides essential nutrients to oral bacteria, which live in plaque. These bacteria then produce even more acid, which softens the enamel even more. The dyes can also penetrate the enamel and leave teeth stained and discolored.

Brushing your teeth immediately after enjoying sports drinks will not protect your teeth and may even increase the risk of damage since you will be brushing teeth that have already been softened. Cutting back or eliminating sports and energy drinks is the best way to protect your teeth. You may reduce the damage by using a straw to sip your drink and by rinsing with water after you enjoy a sports drink. Wait half an hour before brushing to reduce the risk of scratching the enamel on your teeth.

Contact our dental office today to learn more or to schedule a consultation with our dentist.

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