Soda consumption in the United states is increasing rapidly. It is estimated that at least one child in five drinks at least four servings a day.
And these servings are getting larger, in the 1950s a typical soft drink was 6.5 ounces, but now a 20oz soda is common.
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Every time a child drinks something sugary their teeth are under acid attack for up to one hour. This is because the sugar will react with the bacteria in plaque (the sticky coating on your teeth) and produce harmful acids. This acid wears away the enamel. This is called ‘dental erosion’, and makes your teeth sensitive and liable to get cavities and even tooth loss.
Drinking soda, or any soft drink is one the most significant causes of tooth decay in children and adults.
So substitute soda for water, milk, pure fruit juices, stock them in your fridge, and encourage your kids to drink them.
The American Dental Association refers to soft drinks as drinks containing sugar and/or carbonation and acidic products. These include soda, juice drinks and sports drinks. They estimate that more than 25% of children aged 2-5 years and 50% of those aged 12-15 suffer from tooth decay.
Even going sugar free is no easy solution, although sugar free drinks contain none of the acid producing sugars, they are in themselves acidic and have the potential to cause problems.
Here at Complete Dental Health in Coral Springs, Florida, run by Dr. Luis Gomez, we advise that kids be encouraged not to drink sodas, and if they do, you should ensure that the kids have rinsed their mouths with water to remove the last sugary traces.
A child’s total health is greatly determined by their dental health, so encourage your children from an early age to avoid sugary drinks and foods.
Preventing tooth decay is helped by early identification of children at high risk for the disease and subsequent delivery of effective interventions. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that after the first dental visit at 1 year old a child should be seen by a dentist every 6 months.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s teeth then phone 954-228-2963 to make an appointment.
