Diet plays an important role in maintaining dental health. It is important to limit not only certain foods, but also drinks that can cause serious damage to teeth, says SM-Stomatology pediatric dentist Yulia Koroliuk. The specialist listed the drinks that destroy the enamel without noticing.
According to the doctor, carbonated and energy drinks are especially dangerous. They do not quench thirst, but roughen the surface of the teeth, creating conditions for plaque build-up, bacterial growth and cavities.
"Sweetened drinks disrupt the balance between remineralization (the release of minerals into the hard tissues of the teeth) and demineralization (the removal of minerals from the hard tissues of the teeth). Sweetened beverages create an acidic environment in the mouth, thereby enhancing demineralization processes, which increases the risk of cavities." "People who often drink sugary drinks also notice a decrease in the function of the salivary glands. the saliva becomes more viscous and its protective properties decrease,” explained Koroliuk.
Non-caries dental lesions, that is, those not associated with the development of caries, are caused by frequent consumption of natural, undiluted juices, packaged juices, alcoholic beverages (especially wine), coffee, tea, and carbonated and energy drinks. As the dentist explained, this is due to the organic and inorganic acids contained in them. they push calcium out of the hard tissues of the tooth, weakening the enamel.
"Furthermore, coffee and tea, especially green tea, contain tannins, substances that stain enamel, giving teeth a yellowish or brownish tint. This type of plaque can be removed only by professional cleaning by a dentist," added Koroliuk.
The expert also mentioned that if you want sweet drinks, you can drink natural juices, fruit drinks and compotes. However, it is best to dilute them with water and drink them in moderation with meals through a straw. Then rinse your mouth with water or chew sugar-free xylitol gum for five minutes.
Translation by Euromedia24.com
