Could Sugar-Free Drinks be the Cause of Your Dental Problems?

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Many people are aware that fizzy drinks and sugary smoothies can increase the risk of tooth decay, but have you ever thought that sugar-free drinks can be just as harmful? A new study carried out by researchers at the University of Melbourne suggests that sugar-free drinks can cause notable damage to the tooth’s protective enamel coating.

Researchers from the university’s Oral Health Cooperative Research Centre found that drinking diet drinks as well as fizzy and energy drinks can also cause damage to the tooth enamel. In a study of 23 different drinks that included both diet and original carbonated drinks alongside sports drinks, researchers found that diet versions were not a saintly alternative when it came to oral health. This is because the low pH levels cause acid wear, contributing to an increased risk of cavities.

CEO of the research centre, Eric Reynolds, said many people are aware of the potential implications of drinking sugary drinks, but the effects of diet drinks are perhaps not as well documented. Drinking diet drinks may reduce calorie intake, but the acidity contributes to enamel erosion, which increases the risk of decay.

During research studies, the team found that most drinks contributed to a 30-50 percent increase in enamel softening.

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