What do you have in common with a longtime cocaine user and an admitted methamphetamine user? One word: SODA.
According to the March/April 2013 issue of General Dentistry, the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), “the consumption of illegal drugs and abusive intake of soda can cause similar damage to your mouth through the process of tooth erosion.”
Who knew?
What is an ‘abusive intake of soda?’ Drinking 2 liters of soda a day for 3 to 5 years.
All three items carry a high level of acid that causes tooth erosion. The erosion wears away the outer, glossy tooth enamel and allows for teeth to become sensitive, cracked, discolored and susceptible to cavities.
According to Mohamed A. Bassiouny, DMD, MSc, PhD, lead author of the study on soda, three individuals were tracked and equal in visits to the dentist and having poor hygiene. All three individuals also had similar levels of tooth damage from their “’drug’ of choice – meth, crack or soda”.
The Citric Acid found in soda is very similar to the acid in the ingredients used when preparing the drugs for use, thus creating similar results in tooth erosion and damage.
“Similar to citric acid, the ingredients used in preparing methamphetamine can include extremely corrosive materials, such as battery acid, lantern fuel, and drain cleaner.”
To neutralize the acid in your mouth, Dr. Crispin recommends rinsing with water after consuming soda or highly acidic foods or chewing sugar free gum.
If you need correction from damage done to your teeth, Esthetic Professionals’ team of highly skilled hygienists’ and AACD Accredited Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin will be happy to go over a plan of action with you to bring back your natural, healthy smile.