Why Sports and Energy Drinks are Not Good for Your Oral Health

As young people become more and more active, it is also important that they become more cautious. When young people participate in fun activities such as basketball, swimming, football and skateboarding, they are putting themselves at risk of injury. Each year tons of unexpected injuries can lead to lost or damaged teeth. Although many of these injuries can be avoided, it is imperative to take quick action when they do occur. Dr. Louie, dentist in Los Angeles, sets aside specific times to treat this array of dental injuries.

When playing a sport, it is very possible to lose one or multiple teeth. It is very important that if this occurs, patients quickly retrieve the dislodged tooth and put it in water to rinse. It is also very important not to remove any tissue during this process. Those who are injured also have the option of placing the tooth in a small cup of milk or salt water solution until they can get to the dentist. The quicker you get to a cosmetic dentist like Dr. Louie, the greater the chance of saving the tooth.

Many people are surprised to learn that sports drinks along with energy drinks can also cause damage to a person’s teeth. Many studies show that the increase in the use of sports drinks has created a rise in irreversible damage to teeth. Many people began drinking energy drinks hoping to gain extra energy to help them with their athletic performance. They are convinced that these drinks are a great alternative to soda. However, the reality is that these drinks are loaded with acid that cause harm to teeth. When you consume these drinks, you are essentially bathing your teeth in acid.

Educating the public about the downside of consuming sports drinks is an important next step. According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), 30 to 50 percent of teenagers in the US consume energy drinks. Of that group, more than 62 percent consume at least one sports drink per day. That means a high percentage of young people are doing damage to their teeth on a daily basis. Many of these kids have no idea the effect a sports drink can have on their health. Many dentists recommend teenagers limit the consumption of these drinks. Also, they recommend chewing sugar-free gum. When they do consume sports drinks, young people should rinse their mouths out with water afterwards.

Protecting your teeth is an important job which should be taken seriously. Taking precautions could ultimately determine just how bright your smile will be.