Sugary Drinks -
It is accepted by all society that sugary drinks are not good for us; in the mouth consuming sugary drinks can have some very bad consequences.
How do sugary drinks affect my oral health?
Bacteria are present in the mouth – a balance of good and bad, when the amount of sugar in the diet is high and regular, the bad bacteria shifts the balance and thrives on the sugars from food and drinks. The bacteria then begin to produce acids as a by-product and this is what dissolves and damages the teeth causing – tooth decay! When the teeth dissolve the first layer affected is the enamel, over time this can make the teeth sensitive and painful.
What are some examples of sugary drinks?
· Fruit juices
· Cordial
· Soft drinks
· Energy drinks
· Flavoured water
How much sugar is in common drinks?
· 600ml cola – 16 teaspoons
· 600ml lemon squash – 16 teaspoons
· 500ml iced tea – 8 teaspoons
· 600ml sports drink – 9 teaspoons
· 250ml energy drink – 7 teaspoons
· 1100ml slushy – 25 teaspoons
You wouldn’t eat 16 teaspoons of sugar – so why drink it? (rethinksugarydrink.org)
What can I do to fight tooth decay and erosion?
One of the best options is to reduce the amount of sugary drinks consumed through the day. Moderate the amounts of sugary drinks given to children.
Sipping sugary drinks through the day constantly attacks the outer enamel surface of the teeth, so if you are going to have a sugary substance have it during meal time and do not carry it around throughout the day. Never drink sugary drinks before bedtime!
Use a straw so that your teeth are not entirely covered in the sugary drink.
Do not add too many sugars to tea and coffee.
Most importantly drink tap water!