Energy Drinks Blamed for Tooth Erosion Epidemic

Research performed by the Australian Dental Association has shown there is a disproportionate level of tooth erosion amongst Australian teenagers. The research was carried out at schools across Austrlia and it was found that almost 70% of the teenagers that took part in the study had symptoms of errosion in at least one tooth.

Australian dentists suspect that this epidemic of tooth erosion in young people may be due to the enormous popularity of extremely sugary energy drinks amongst Australian youths. Most carbonated sugary drinks are bad for your teeth, but many energy drinks are also extremely acidic. This increased acidity combined with the massive amount of sugar in popular energy drinks such as Red Bull is bad news for tooth enamel.

The popularity of these energy drinks has increased significantly in recent years in Australia with a 20% increase in the market for these drinks in the last year alone. Many of these drinks have recently been introduced to the UK where they’re attaining a similar level of popularity, so it’s likely that we could soon see an unprecedented level of tooth erosion amongst young people too.

It is possible to treat tooth erosion through the application of porcelain veneers, however this procedure is expensive and it would be a better option to take preventative steps such as curbing the fizzy drink consumption rather than treating erosion when it manifests itself as a serious problem. Drinking water instead would be a much better option as the pH level is a neutral 7, so it’s the least acidic option when it comes to drinks.

Many people from London mistakenly believe that drinking the diet and sugar free versions of these soft drinks will not do any damage to their teeth due to reduced sugar content. However, many of these drinks are still highly acidic and this is a contributing factor to the erosion of tooth enamel. Although you can still enjoy soft drinks it is wiser to do so in moderation rather than make them your regular choice of beverage.

Posted in: News
Tags: London, Tooth erosion, Tooth erosion London
| September 29, 2010 at 11:36 am | No comment

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