HERE’S ONE REALLY SIMPLE THING that you can do to make your child’s mouth healthier: reduce the number of sugary, acidic drinks in his diet! When we say sugary, acidic drinks we mean more than just soda. We’re including sports drinks, energy drinks, and even fruit juice. Read on!
Sugar + Acid Create The Worst Possible Cocktail For Your Child’s Smile
Oral bacteria in our mouths metabolize sugars in our drinks. This reaction creates an acid byproduct that erodes our teeth. Children who have a healthy balance of bacteria in their mouths suffer less decay, but no one is completely free of harmful oral bacteria, even with perfect brushing habits. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-nPxBF24wM?rel=0]
Acidic Drinks Erode Teeth
In addition to the sugar, these drinks are loaded with acid! Acidity in soft drinks takes a more direct route than sugar, eroding teeth without the help of oral bacteria. Each attack on the teeth lasts about 20 minutes and when your child takes another sip, it starts over again. This is why diet and “sugar-free” sodas do just as much damage as regular soda.
Many Of Us Drink At Least One A Day
As many as half of us drink at least one soda per day! Many people drink more. How much do YOU drink each day? How about your child? Imagine how much better your child’s enamel would feel if you replaced that soda with milk or water.
Teach Your Child To Be Kind To His Smile
It’s not just about cavities. Enamel erosion can also lead to tooth sensitivity, and excess sugar leads to gum disease, the biggest cause of tooth loss in adults. Have YOU kicked the soda habit? Do you have any tips that you can share with us? We’d love to hear from you! What techniques do you use to steer your children away from sugary, acidic drinks?
