Soft Drinks and Your Oral Health - Frequently Asked Questions

 

• Is soft drink good for my teeth? - No! As most soft drinks (fizzy and still) and fruit juices contain sugar, they are not safe for your teeth when consumed frequently. Studies show that the consumption of soft drinks increases the risk of developing dental decay, especially in children. All soft drinks are acidic, and this can dissolve the tooth in a process called dental erosion.

• What does soft drink do to my teeth? - The sugar in soft drink is converted into acid by the bacteria in plaque. This acid can lead to tooth decay. Also, acid from the soft drink itself can damage tooth structure irreversibly due to dental erosion.
  
   
• What should I do after I have had a soft drink? - You should try to eat or drink something that will help neutralise the acid in the mouth, such as milk. Rinsing with water may help reduce the risk of decay and erosion as well. If you are very thirsty after playing sport or working outdoors, drink some water first. This will replenish your saliva which in turn will help to dilute and neutralise the acid. 
  
  
• Is sugar-free soft drink good for my teeth? - No! Sugar-free soft drinks may not cause a significant increase in decay; however, as they are still very acidic they will increase the risk of developing dental erosion.  
  
  
• Is there a way I can consume soft drink safely? - It is always best to minimise the amount and number of times per day you drink soft drinks.  Here are some ways that tooth damage from soft drinks can be reduced.
  - Only have at meal times
  - Drink it quickly, do not sip over a long period
  - Keep the soft drink cold
  - Use a straw where possible
  - Do not brush teeth straight away
  - Do not swish the soft drink around the mouth
  - Finish meals with something to neutralise acids e.g. milk, cheese or chew sugar-free gum