A recent study is conducted by ‘Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)’. As a part of this research which is related to patients’ oral health needs, scientists at the AGD have warned the people who consume energy drinks that they could be eventually dangerous to teeth. AGD is a professional association which comprises of more than 35,000 general dentists. Founded in 1952, it is considered to be the world’s second largest dental association where the dentists are committed to add to the updates and continuous research in the field of dentistry.
Looking at the rise of the consumption of energy drinks in the United States, it has been projected that by 2010, the energy drink industry would hit $10 billion. So, keeping this alarming rise in the consumption, AGD has conducted a study appearing in the November/December 2007 issue of “General Dentistry” has decided to look into the various reasons which could play such detrimental effects on the health of the teeth.Contrary to the popular belief supported by the previous findings which found the pH level of soft drinks dangerous for the dental health, AGD has added many other aspects of such energy drinks which cause dental damage. It was believed that the pH (potential of hydrogen) levels in beverages such as soda could lead to tooth erosion. Presence of acid in drinks like ice tea or root beer leads to the breakdown of tooth structure which further leads to tooth decay and erosion of the enamel.
The recent study revealed that the presence of acid is not the only factor that causes dental erosion. Erosion is also sped up by the buffering capacity of the beverage or the ability to neutralize acid. It studied the acidity levels of five most popular beverages on the market. They found that in addition to the acid levels, their highest mean buffering capacity had also been found eroding the enamel.
The study specially warns the adolescents and the young adults due to the popularity of health drinks among this age group. Since they have immature tooth enamel which is more porous in nature, the acids found in the soft drinks bring more damage to their permanent teeth. This has resulted in higher cases of enamel erosion among this age group.
Dr, Raymond Martin, DDS, MAGD, AGD spokesperson recommends the consumption of sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks among this age group and warns that if the dental concerns are not dealt early, could demand a more extensive treatment in form of full mouth rehabilitation. He suggests consuming these energy drinks more responsibly for better oral health.
Few tips like using a straw more positioned towards the back of the mouth to avoid coming in touch with the teeth, rinsing the mouth with water after consuming such drinks and limited intake can led to better dental health.
