The effect of sugary drinks on dental health

As a dental clinic in Geelong, we see the effects sugary drinks have on our clients’ teeth! We also find that many people can identify drinks like Coca-Cola and Lemonade as ‘sugary’ but don’t know where other popular beverages like energy drinks and Iced Tea come into the equation.

For example, your common Iced Tea drink can contain up to 8 1/2 teaspoons of sugar. Only 2 teaspoons less than Coke! Sports drinks contain as much sugar as Iced Tea varieties and chocolate milk happens to be one of the worst culprits with more sugar than Coke, Iced Tea and sports drinks!

Sugar impacts the teeth because the bacteria in our mouths converts sugar to acid which eats away at the enamel of the tooth and can cause cavities. If you’re thinking of swapping out your normal Coke for Diet Coke or Coke Zero – beware that while these don’t have the sugar content, they contain the acid directly. So they are just as damaging to your teeth!

As a dental clinic in Geelong we can advise on alternatives which are better for the health of your teeth. These could include:

• fruit-infused water – chop up fresh fruits like lemon or strawberries and put in your regular water bottle for added flavour
• soda and mineral waters – not the flavoured varieties
• plain milk – soy, almond and cow’s milk are all perfectly OK.

If you’re concerned about the damage sugary drinks has had on your teeth, call and book an appointment at our dental clinic in Geelong.