Energy drinks have been promising consumers more daily “oomph” for several years.  It’s not surprising then that sales in the US have risen sharply for the last decade.  In fact, it’s estimated the energy drink market will top $10 billion by 2010.  While this is great news for the energy drink companies, it could mean a different story for those who drink it.

Numerous scientific studies, the latest of them done by Dr. John Ruby of the University of Alabama Dental School, reveal that low pH, highly acidic soda (colas, whether regular or diet) and energy/vitamin drinks are the direct cause of  tooth erosion.¹

According to the study, the popularity of energy drinks is ticking upward, especially among adolescents and young adults.  Their permanent teeth are more susceptible to attack from the acid found in soft drinks, because of the porous quality of their immature tooth enamel.  As a result, the potential for erosion among this age group is on a sharp increase.

Drink manufacturers put acid into beverages to balance the sweetness of the sugar.  A can of Coke has 10 teaspoons of sugar, for example.  This study found that drinks such as Powerade, Gatorade, Red Bull, and Snapple Classic Lemonade had the highest levels of acidity.  In some cases, the damage caused by the continuous consumption of these drinks becomes irreversible, and the consumer would require extensive full mouth treatment.

The best advice for consumers is to stop drinking any of these sodas or energy drinks. However, to minimize the tooth damage for those who continue to drink them, the study recommends the following tips:

• Use a straw positioned at the back of the mouth, so the liquid avoids contact with teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water after drinking acidic beverages.
• Use sports drinks for their intended use.  An athlete who gulps down Gatorade after a workout isn’t the one whose teeth are likely to suffer.  It’s the student or the office worker who drinks a jug or two during the day, because he likes the taste.

Reference

1. Journal of General Dentistry, March/April 2007.

[Ed. Note: Dr. Joseph R. Simaie is an Implant, Cosmetic, and Restorative dentist in Beverly Hills, CA. In addition to restoring smiles, his office is on the forefront of practicing preventive dentistry.  Dr. Simaie is an assistant clinical professor at USC School of Dentistry.  He is also a clinical evaluator for a major dental manufacturer and serves on the boards of several dental organizations.]

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