Diet Soda vs. Regular Soda: Which One is Worse for Teeth?

You’ve likely heard that soda isn’t good for your teeth, a concern often mentioned by healthcare professionals, parents, and peers. As a result, you might have switched to “diet” soda, thinking it’s better for your teeth. However, diet soda isn’t much better for your smile than regular soda. To understand more about this, your dentist can help. Keep reading to discover how soda affects your teeth and ways to keep your smile healthy.

Remember: Sugary Sodas Hurt Teeth

Let’s start by understanding why regular soda is bad for your teeth, which will help explain why diet sodas aren’t any better. The primary reason behind the negative effect of regular soda on teeth is its high sugar content. When sugar comes into contact with your teeth, it attracts bacteria that lead to enamel erosion.

Considering that a 12-ounce soda usually contains about nine teaspoons of sugar, it’s not surprising that dentists advise against excessive consumption. If this habit continues unchecked, it significantly increases the risk of developing cavities.

Diet Isn’t Different

Although diet soda may not contain the same amount of sugar as regular soda, studies indicate that it can still harm teeth. Additional research has identified specific factors that contribute to this harm. Unlike sugary sodas, sugar-free versions contain ingredients that can contribute to dental erosion. This erosion involves the gradual wearing away of enamel, exposing the layers beneath the tooth surface.

Phosphoric acid and citric acid are two harmful components. They react with calcium, weakening the teeth and leading to tooth sensitivity and other oral health issues.

How to Protect Your Smile from Decay

Fortunately, there are methods to shield your smile from the harmful effects of soda, whether it’s regular or diet. The most commonly suggested methods include:

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: To reduce the effect of soda on your oral health, it’s advised to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. However, it’s important to wait at least 30 minutes after drinking soda before you brush your teeth.
• See Your Dentist Often: Regular dental checkups and cleanings help your dentist catch and sometimes even reverse tooth decay before it worsens.
• Use a Straw: Using a straw when drinking soda can lessen its contact with your teeth, lowering the risk of damage.
• Rinse Your Mouth: After drinking an acidic beverage, it’s recommended to rinse your mouth with water or milk. Both can help restore the pH balance in your mouth.

Taking care of your oral health is essential for your overall well-being, and small actions can make a big difference in keeping your smile beautiful. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They can help you make the best decisions to keep your smile bright and healthy!

About the Practice

Dr. Philip A. Lisk’s dental practice is dedicated to addressing your needs and helping patients in the DFW area with their dental care. They offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, including emergency procedures. Dr. Lisk’s office is also known for providing dental sedation, ensuring a comfortable experience for those with dental anxiety. To learn more about their services or to book an appointment, you can contact Dr. Lisk’s office at (919) 870-6892 or visit their website.