Despite many reports stating energy drinks are bad for your health (and teeth), they continue to gain popularity. What most people don’t know is that the high acidity level in these beverages can strip teeth enamel and leave permanent damage. It’s time to consider whether the extra boost is worth the permanent risk to your smile.
What Qualifies as an Energy Drink?
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states:
“Energy drinks are widely promoted as products that increase energy and enhance mental alertness and physical performance. Next to multivitamins, energy drinks are the most popular dietary supplement consumed by American teens and young adults.”
Some of the most popular brands of energy drinks sold in North America include Red Bull, Monster, and RockStar.
Energy Drink Ingredients
Most energy drinks contain the following ingredients:
- Caffeine
- Taurine (an amino acid that shows no evidence of providing energy)
- Guarana (a plant native to the Amazon region that contains a very high concentration of caffeine)
- Sugar
Why Energy Drinks Are Bad for Your Teeth
Energy drinks cause cavities in the same way sodas do: high sugar content and very acidic pH level.
Mouth bacteria consumes sugar, which produces acid. When this acid stays in contact with the enamel surface of your teeth, it begins to weaken it. This process creates cavities.
Additionally, all energy drinks, even the sugar-free versions, have a very low pH level. Consistently drinking very acidic drinks predisposes you to a higher risk for cavities.
How to Quit Energy Drinks
You might have a dependency on caffeine if you are used to drinking multiple energy drinks per day. To quit drinking them altogether, you may have to practice small steps. Here are a few methods to consider:
- Drink smoothies and juices: Using natural sources like fruits and vegetables can help supply your body with Vitamin B, which helps your body perform at optimum levels.
- Green Tea: Green tea contains natural caffeine in small quantities and also carries health benefits such as reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease.
- Water: Water is actually a great energy drink because your metabolic reactions slow down when you’re dehydrated. This can lead to lower energy levels.
Why Choose Snow Family Dentistry
If you need more suggestions on how to stop drinking energy drinks, or have concerns about tooth damage resulting from consuming them, schedule a free consultation with us today!
