THE TRUTH ABOUT SODA

Do you ever just crave an ice-cold beverage? Perhaps, a coke? It’s hard not to and we understand why. But the health risks that swarm us from drinking a soda are substantial. You may be thinking to yourself, “no harm, no foul”, but the reality of it is, drinking a “pop” does more harm than good. These sugary beverages aren’t worth the risk and here’s why:

• Consuming beverages with a high sugar content, such as soda, is one of the leading causes of cavities and general decay of the teeth.
• If the tooth surface is exposed to a high amount of sugar, the sugar that comes in contact with bacteria in the mouth turns into acid, which then softens and breaks down tooth enamel.
• When enamel breaks down, the tooth becomes at risk for developing cavities.
• Once enamel of the tooth is lost, there is no way to build it back up, resulting in necessary treatment.

For these reasons, it’s vital to your health to stay away from soda as much as possible. A glass here and there isn’t going to kill you, but it can certainly do more damage than you think if you don’t take proper care of your teeth. If you must have a glass of pop, it’s better to drink it fast than just sipping on it. That way it gives the bacteria less time to develop and turn into acid. Drinking a glass of water after is also beneficial. It’s also best to brush your teeth immediately after drinking a soda, or a high-sugar beverage.

However, the ideal alternative is to remove soda from your diet completely. Water is your best friend. It’s not only good for your teeth, but it supports a healthy body as well. Juice is another beverage high in sugar and also poses a risk to the enamel of your teeth. We understand that it’s much easier saying you’re going to quit, than actually following through with it. There may be days where your body is craving a pop because of the caffeine, but just remember the long term effects it can have on your teeth and try finding an alternative beverage instead. This small dietary change can make a huge difference in your overall health. It’s okay to indulge once in a blue moon, but make sure to be cautious of how much you are consuming. It’s a good idea to limit soda consumption for only special occasions.

In the end, we will always be here for you to help you stay on track with your dental health and live a life full of healthy smiles! Make sure to schedule your regular check-up to ensure your teeth remain strong! If you’re due for a cleaning, call the Kellogg Dental team at 517-546-3330 or follow this link to reserve a time that works best for you. We look forward to seeing you at your next visit!