Diet Soda VS Regular Soda: Which is Worse?

An ice-cold soda can be refreshing on a hot day, but too much can be bad for your waistline and dental health. Diet soda is marketed as a healthier option because it contains less sugar. However, is it any safer for your smile than regular soda? No. In the eyes of your dentist, any soda is bad news for your teeth.

All Soda Can Cause Decay

Soda is very acidic because it contains sugar, which feeds cavity-causing bacteria that can erode enamel. Your enamel is the hardest substance in your body, including some metals, but it isn’t any match for sugar. Although diet soda contains less sugar, it still has many artificial sweeteners and flavors that are just as harmful. Your dentist will recommend skipping soda altogether to keep your pearly whites healthy.

How Sugar Harms Your Smile

Your teeth are composed of 3 layers. Your enamel is the hard outer layer that protects the soft dentin and pulp. Unfortunately, enamel can’t grow back. Once it’s lost, it’s gone for good. Sugar can lead to enamel loss because it creates an acidic plaque when it combines with bacteria in your mouth. Although cavities are preventable, 92% of adults have had one in a permanent tooth. Cavities are the most chronic health condition and a leading cause of tooth loss.

Cutting sugar from your diet lessens your risk of decay. If you need something to drink, you have many options that will support your dental health.

Drink a Glass of Milk Daily

You’ve probably heard the slogan “Milk, it does a body good,” but it’s also great for your smile. Milk contains calcium and phosphate, which are the building blocks of your enamel. A glass of milk each day can make your teeth more resistant to decay. However, milk also contains sugar, so it’s best to moderate your consumption. Choose low-fat milk that doesn’t have any added sweeteners.

Choose Water from the Tap

Fluoride is known as “nature’s cavity fighter” because it’s proven to reduce tooth decay. It has been added to public water systems for decades because of its benefits. Water is the safest option for your dental health and keeps your body hydrated. Healthcare professionals recommend drinking eight 8oz glasses of water daily. They’ll keep your mouth clean and moist with every sip. Choosing water from the tap will also build your smile’s resiliency against tooth decay.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Besides caring for your smile at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They also provide many other preventative services, like dental sealants and fluoride treatment, to lessen your risk of cavities.

Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss every night before going to bed to keep your teeth and gums healthy between your regular appointments.

About Dr. LJ Adam 

Dr. Adam earned his dental degree from the University Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and has regularly pursued continuing education to provide up-to-date services. He focuses on prevention to keep common oral health issues at bay, like tooth decay. If you need a cleaning and checkup, request an appointment through our website or call (724) 954-3394.