Now that we are a couple weeks into the New Year, many resolutions have been made and broken. “I’m cutting down on soda this year,” is one of those resolutions. Our team at Dr. Gabhart’s office knows it’s unlikely for some people to cut soda out of their diet completely, but here are some tips to make sure you are keeping your teeth safe while enjoying your favorite beverage:
DO:
- Drink soda in moderation (no more than one 12-ounce can a day)
- Use a straw to keep the sugar away from teeth
- Rinse your mouth out with water after drinking to dilute the acid and sugar if brushing your teeth is not possible.
- Drink plenty of water to stay properly hydrated
- Brush and floss regularly
DON’T
- Sip soda for extended periods of time (this creates an even bigger acid attack on teeth)
- Drink soda shortly before bedtime
- Allow children to have soda frequently as their enamel isn’t fully formed
It’s also important to note that even diet or sugar-free soda contains its own acid that can also damage teeth. Soda of all types can weaken tooth enamel and cause decay. If you are going to enjoy a soda, make sure you know the risks and follow the tips above to make sure you aren’t severely damaging your teeth.
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