One More Reason That You Should Ditch the Soda Habit

This is pretty close to riot-inducing – we get it. Let’s face it, every which way we turn, we’re being told – drink more water, quit the soda (and diet soda), sugary drinks and stick with water. We know the benefits of water, so we’re going to leave that to another article entirely. Did you know that these drinks can cause dental problems as well?

Cavities – the obvious dental issue from sugary drinks, foods, etc.

It’s true, that sugary-sweet flavor that we love can cause cavities. One recommended way to reduce your risk for tooth decay is to brush your teeth after drinking anything but water, but that is not normally feasible. You can chew a piece of sugar-free gum between drinks and meals, which can be easier to do that sip – brush – sip – brush, and so on.

These drinks can be consumed in moderation, so it’s not all terrible. And, sorry, this even includes the sweet cold slushes and shaved ice that are the staples of any blistering Utah County summer.

I drink diet soda – so no sugar here, does that mean that I’m in the clear?

We’re almost afraid to publish this, for fear of the loyal Diet Coke or Diet Dr. Pepper addicts fans will come after us, as these drinks have almost a cult-like devotion with those who drink them. (We’re not officially taking sides, but Diet Dr. Pepper tastes so much better!) See, even people from your Spanish Fork dental practice may have a tiny little opinion here.

What about the stains?

It’s true that these drinks don’t have the sugar content. Beyond the chemical sweeteners that can harm your health, these drinks, like their sugary counterparts, can stain your teeth with their dark deliciousness. This staining can be removed, but often takes professional whitening products to fully remove for long-time users.

Other substances that can stain your teeth are typically not found in many Utah County residents’ lifestyles – coffee, tea, red wine, smoking, but there are many perfectly healthy things that can cause tooth staining, such as certain antibiotics, blueberries, curry, beets, soy sauce (and other dark foods), and dark juices (grape, cranberry, pomegranate, etc.).

My teeth are already stained, now what?

You can use OTC tooth whitening kits, but these vary in efficacy and can be pricey. For optimum results, when you visit Dr. Rogers, who we all know is a very caring dentist in Spanish Fork for your next tooth cleaning; make sure to ask about ways to keep your teeth gleaming and your smile bright.