Energy and Sports Drinks Eat Away at Teeth, Study Says

Is it dangerous to drink energy and sports drinks while you work out? The link between drinking sports drinks and dental problems may surprise you. Often times, many people seek help and advice from dentists and dietitians to keep their bodies in the best possible shape. Although this advice can be obvious, many of us overlook a vital part of our health which is our teeth.

Dental Issues Caused by Energy Drinks

Most specialists find that the most commonly reported dental issues by people who regularly take energy and sports drink are the following:

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth creates acids that eat away the tooth’s enamel. This will eventually create holes, called cavities, in your teeth as the acid breaks down the parts of your tooth.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a chronic infection and leads to inflammation of the gums. This happens when bacterial plaques develop over time and turn to a rough and porous substance called tartar. The bacterial plaque releases toxins that irritate and contaminate the gums.

Why Energy Drinks Promote Tooth Decay for Drinkers

It may seem peculiar that those that consume energy drinks  are especially prone to have dental health problems. Here are some factors that explain why consuming energy drinks lead to a high risk of dental problems:

Sugar Consumption

Intra-workout supplements, sports and energy drinks and soda are usually used by active and dynamic people to provide energy during exercise. The sugar found in these beverages causes increased saliva and acid production for the oral bacteria which causes a higher risk of  dental problems.

Acidity Concentration

The enamel and dentin of our teeth are exhausted and broken down by acids of a pH lower than 5.5. Most sports drinks have citric acid or malic acid with a pH between 2.4 to 4.5.