The permanent damage to the teeth of teenagers and young adults can be caused by sports and energy drinks. A recent study published in General Dentistry notes that energy and sports drinks contain so much acid that after just five days of consistent use, they begin destroying teeth. An approximate 30 percent to 50 percent of U.S. teenagers consume energy drinks and as many as 62 percent consume at least one sports drink a day, according to the Academy of General Dentistry. The high acidity levels erode tooth enamel and permanent damage is the result.
Our doctors and team at GSO Orthodontics advise our patients to reduce their consumption of sports drinks. Ultimately, enamel erosion makes teeth more susceptible to bacteria which can lead to tooth decay, staining, and hypersensitivity. If you eat an energy or sports drink, be sure to wait before you brush for at least 45 minutes, as acidic drink intake causes tooth enamel to weaken, making teeth more sensitive to wear from the abrasives in toothpaste.
The most common chronic childhood condition, five times more common than asthma, is tooth decay. With correct care, it’s even preventable. Our doctors and our staff will help detect early signs of erosion and provide ways to avoid further harm and the incidence of more severe problems.
