Dental News - ‘Rethink Your Drink,’ CDA tells the public

Dental Tribune USA

Mon. 18 June 2012

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Sacramento, Calif., USA: As summertime temperatures are going up, the California Dental Association is encouraging the public to “rethink your drink” before downing a sugary beverage to quench thirst.   While the media often focuses on the risks of obesity and diabetes, it’s important to realize that drinking sugar-filled sodas, sports drinks or juices can contribute to tooth decay and dental pain.

According to the California Center for Public Health Advocacy, the average American consumes 50 gallons of soda and other sweetened beverages each year.   What’s more, statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show more than 19 percent of children ages 2 to 19 have untreated cavities.  

According to the CDA, bacteria feed on what you eat and drink, especially sugars, and this creates acid that can break down the tooth’s outer surface and dissolve the valuable minerals that protect teeth from decay.  

“Sipping sugary drinks gives bacteria in the mouth more power to create acid that weakens tooth enamel and causes cavities,” said CDA President-elect Lindsay Robinson, DDS. “In addition, sports drinks pose many of the same risks as other sugar-loaded beverages, such as irreversible dental erosion, and should not be substituted for water.”  

CDA urges people to swap out sugar-laden drinks for a glass of milk or water this summer.

 “Water contains no sugar, no acids and no calories, so your teeth, and your body, will benefit,” said Robinson. “Water also helps keep gums hydrated and rinses away food particles that would otherwise remain in the mouth promoting bacterial growth that causes decay.”  

Most importantly, protect teeth throughout the year by brushing for two minutes, two times a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly and visiting a dentist for a complete dental checkup on a regular basis.

(Source: California Dental Association)

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