The Damage Caused By Energy Drinks

You’ve probably heard about all of the health issues caused by energy drinks, especially in teenagers and young adults. But, amid all of these problems, there’s also your oral health that you need to consider. Energy drinks have been linked to the weakening of tooth enamel, which can lead to cavities and a slew of other dental problems.

Energy drinks were recently studied to analyze their acidity. After 5 days of average exposure to energy drinks, enamel loss was clear in the test. Because these drinks are so popular with the younger crowd, it’s important to restrict or limit consumption of these drinks. If you do decide to drink energy drinks, please be sure to brush immediately after to limit the amount of time your enamel is exposed to the acid in the drink. If these drinks are so damaging to the enamel of you teeth, just imagine what it’s doing to the rest of your body!

Below are a few of the results of weakened enamel:

• Sensitivity – Your teeth may become sensitive to sugary foods or to hot or cold temperatures.
• Discoloration – When your enamel wears away, the dentin underneath begins to show through. This dentin is a more a yellow color, so your teeth will appear yellow as well.
• Chipping or cracks – As the enamel erodes, the edges of your teeth may be come jagged or irregular and may be more prone to chipping or cracking.
• Pain – In the later stages of weakened enamel, the sensitivity in your teeth will become downright painful. Some patients describe it as sharp enough to take your breath away.

Because the enamel protects your teeth, the lack of enamel will cause your teeth to be much more vulnerable. Cavities and tooth decay may occur and, if left untreated, can grow and turn into major infection or abscesses.

Instead of drinking energy drinks the next time you’re thirsty, reach for water. To add flavor to the water, try natural juices or coconut water. This will not only improve your health, but will also lower your dental bill significantly!

If you believe you’re suffering from weakened tooth enamel, please contact Lockett Orthodontics, located in Colorado Springs, CO!