Over time, erosion of the tooth enamel can cause tooth sensitivity. Unlike cavities that can be fixed with a filling, there is nothing a dentist can do to alleviate tooth sensitivity. It is very important to limit your soda intake, and if you do drink soda, to follow up with water and brushing, because toothpaste re-mineralizes or strengthens areas where acid weakened the teeth. Thanks for visiting us at Saddle Rock Pediatric Dentistry. Enjoy reading!

You may be saving calories by drinking diet soda, but when it comes to enamel erosion of your teeth, it’s no better than regular soda.

In the last 25 years, Kim McFarland, D.D.S., associate professor in the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in Lincoln, has seen an increase in the number of dental patients with erosion of the tooth enamel – the protective layer of the tooth. Once erosion occurs, it can’t be reversed and affects people their whole life.

“I’d see erosion once in a while 25 years ago but I see much more prevalence nowadays,” Dr. McFarland said. “A lot of young people drink massive quantities of soda. It’s no surprise we’re seeing more sensitivity.”

Triggers like hot and cold drinks – and even cold air – reach the tooth’s nerve and cause pain. Depending on the frequency and amount of soda consumed, the erosion process can be extreme.

She said according to the National Soft Drink Association, it’s estimated the average American drinks 44 gallons of soda pop a year. Phosphoric and citric acid, which are common ingredients in many popular sodas and diet sodas, alters the pH balance in the mouth and can cause tooth erosion over time.

“It can be more harmful than cavities because the damage causes tooth sensitivity,” Dr. McFarland said. “If a tooth is decayed a dentist can fix it by placing a filling, but if a tooth is sensitive there is really nothing a dentist can do.

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