IT’S KNOWN BY MANY DIFFERENT NAMESpop, soda, soft drinks, soda popbut when it comes down to its effect on your teeth, it’s all the same!

Sugary sodas have not only contributed a huge percentage to the nations obese population, but the acidic sugar byproducts and acids soften your tooth enamel, contributing to more cavities. Brushing gets even harder when your tooth enamel gets softer, creating an unwanted one/two punch.

Some of you may have heard that turning to sugar-free is a healthier alternative, and while that may be true, the effect diet sodas have on your teeth doesn’t change much. Diet sodas are LESS harmful on your teeth, but they can still cause acidic damage. Unfortunately, they only account for 14% of the nation’s soda-consumption anyway.

Each year, the amount of soft drinks we consume in the United States increases dramaticallyespecially among teenagers and children. At least one in five children consumes a minimum of four servings of pop each day, and some teenages drink much, much more. In fact, the problem has become so bad that the American Academy of Pediatrics sounded an alarm about the dangers and suggested guidelines for helping children create good better habits.

So, What Can I Do?

• Reduce the amount you drink. Seems obvious, right?

• Drink more water. It will help take away your cravings for soda.

• Use fluoride toothpastes and/or mouth rinses.

• Find substitutes you enjoy that are more healthy.

• When you DO drink soda pop, rinse your mouth with water when you finish.

• Dont forget to schedule regular dental checkups.

Here at L&M Orthodontics, although we are primarily concerned with straightening your teeth, we want to do everything we can to help you keep your beautiful smile for life. If you have questions about different beverages and their effect on your teeth, be sure to ask us. We love talking to you, our valued patients, about your oral health.

Don’t forget to join us on Facebookand Twitter for more discussions about your orthodontic comfort and appearance. We look forward to seeing you again soon!