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We hear more and more about the unhealthy amount of sugar in soda. The sugar and caloric content are higher than one may suspect. In fact, a 12-ounce can of Coca Cola has 39 grams of sugar alone, the equivalent of 9 1/3 teaspoons of sugar. Drinking sugary beverages are one of the main causes of cavities. Sodas and juices are some of the most sugar-filled beverages one can find. Your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, treat tooth decay and a variety of other dental issues with compassionate, expert care. They would like to discuss what sodas and juices can do to our teeth.

How Cavities Form

The bacteria in our mouth thrive on the sugar from the foods and drinks we consume. The bacteria will form a sticky plaque that clings to teeth. You may experienced this thin layer of film on your teeth after drinking a soda. Bacteria produces this acid that can eat through the hard, white coating on the outside of our teeth, the enamel. This creates a hole in our teeth, a cavity.

Tips for Drinking Sodas and Juices

The amount of soda or juice you drink can determine if those beverages will lead to tooth decay. Also, how often you drink sodas or juices plays a role in how harmful they can become. If you drink one medium sized soda a day, you have a lower risk of cavities. Drinking more than one soda each day can increase your chances of developing tooth decay because of your mouth’s repeated exposure to sugar. Your dentists also recommend avoiding sodas that contain artificial additives such as aspartame. They also strongly urge you to avoid sugary drinks in the evening or after you have brushed your teeth because the acid can damage your teeth while you sleep.

About Your Mansfield Dentists

Mansfield Dental Associates provide gentle preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental care. If you would like to learn more or to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.