Soda, Some Drugs Impact Teeth Same Way

Judging by the impact on teeth, it may be difficult to tell the difference between methamphetamine use, crack cocaine use and soda consumption.

At least that’s what a new study says. The study, which was published in the March/April 2013 issue of General Dentistry, says that all of those substances can cause the same amount of teeth erosion.

Tooth erosion stems from acid wearing away at the tooth enamel. The teeth then become more vulnerable to cavities, discoloration or other issues.

To compile the data, three people were studied. One person was a methamphetamine user, another was a longtime cocaine user and the third person consumed large amounts of diet soda. All of the participants had poor oral hygiene and did not often frequent the dentist.

Just like the citric component in soda, the ingredients utilized in methamphetamine are corrosive, including things such as battery acid, drain cleaner or lantern fuel. Cocaine could be considered an acidic substance as well.

The soda drinker of the group consumed 2 liters of diet soda on a daily basis for three to five years. The impact on the teeth was so similar to the drug users that it begs the question of whether or not soda should ever be consumed.

Switching to more water over soda is always a good idea. Rinsing with water or chewing sugarless gum can also minimize the effects of soda by promoting saliva flow.



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