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Do You Know Why Teens and Soda Don’t Mix?
- Posted on: May 30 2018
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Teens and soda. The two go together like peanut butter and jelly, right? Most adults can remember gulping down a flavorful carbonated beverage at lunch or when watching the big game on Friday night. It’s difficult to imagine adolescence without certain cornerstones, soda and burgers and fries being some of them. The problem is, we cannot ignore the fact that soda and teeth don’t mix. Furthermore, recent research is pointing out a particular way that soda and teenagers don’t mix.
A report from the Academy of General Dentistry suggests that the busy lifestyle of the average teen makes him more prone to reach for easy foods and snacks. Additionally, the hectic pace of life that is kept by many teens today also presents an obstacle to adequate oral care. Essentially, teens may not spend as much time brushing and flossing their teeth as is needed, and they then add to their risk of dental decay by consuming soda and sports drinks.
It’s Not Just the Sugar
Parents may be so used to hearing about the dangers of sugar that they all-but tune these messages out. It is common knowledge that sugar can cause cavities, even if it is in a round about way. The sugar that is in soda is exacerbated by the acidic ingredients that are in soda. Together, the two pack a one-two punch against strong, sustainable enamel. But that’s not all.
Studies have indicated that phosphoric acid inhibits adequate calcium absorption. This is an important matter for the parents of teens because further research states that it is during the teenage years (age 9 to 18) when bone development is at its peak. In one analysis, researchers discovered a link between soda consumption and increased bone fractures among teenage girls. Calcium is vital to bone strength as well as strong, healthy teeth.
Teens may not need to give up soda altogether but are certainly encouraged to minimize consumption of this and other acidic products (like sour candies). Drinking water after soda can protect tooth enamel from erosion, but it cannot offset the calcium depletion that comes from a soda-drinking habit. To do that, parents may give teens a daily multivitamin that contains calcium.
Routine dental care in our Golden, CO office can also benefit teens who want to avoid cavities, gum inflammation, and bad breath. To schedule a visit for your teen, call (303) 277-9600.
Posted in: DENTAL EXAMS, TEETH CLEANINGS AND X-RAYS, Gum Disease
