Drinking Energy Drinks Can Increase Risk of Cavities, Warns Orange County Dental Care

Orange, CA, April 1, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Many people turn to energy drinks as a pick-me-up when they’re feeling sluggish or want an increase in energy, but this jolt of sugar and caffeine can come at a cost.  The Times of India sheds light on some of the dangers of over-consumption of these beverages, including risk of cavities. Dr. Ali-Reza Etemadieh of Orange County Dental Care, an dentistry in Orange, California, comments on these findings and how patients can protect their teeth.

“These beverages contain a great deal of sugar, and if left to settle on your teeth, it can eat away at enamel and lead to cavities,” says Dr. Etemadieh. “Adolescents and even adults may not consider the amount of sugar or that they should be stopping to brush afterward. They’re running on the jolt of energy it provides and then trying to cope with the fatigue once it wears off. This can lead to drinking these beverages even more frequently.”

The article notes that many people experience a “sugar crash” once the energy has worn off making them once again feel tired and sluggish. Because of the high sugar content, these drinks can lead to unwanted weight gain. The caffeine can become addicting and without it, people may experience headaches or irritability. Pediatrician Dr. Bhandarkar notes, “As these drinks taste sweet, children are also attracted to them.”

“Parents should be cautious to limit their children’s consumption of sugar and caffeine,” says Dr. Etemadieh. “There are many natural alternatives such as fresh fruit to satisfy their sweet tooth, or exercise to enhance energy. To quench their thirst, water is always a good option. For more flavor, parents can add a few slices of fresh fruit. After drinking an energy drink or other sugary substances, following up with a glass of plain water can help to rinse away some of the sugar until you can brush.”

While some people think that they are getting healthy vitamins from energy drinks, the article explains that a well-balanced diet or even supplements are a better alternative. The teeth do need a variety of vitamins and minerals to stay strong and healthy but the benefits of energy drinks are minimal, says Dr. Etemadieh, and can be offset by the vast amount of sugar.

Dr. Etemadieh reminds patients that they should be brushing and flossing at least twice a day and drinking plenty of water to help rinse food particles, sugar, and bacteria away from their teeth. ​

Regular dental exams can remove plaque buildup and identify potential problems before they become more serious. He encourages patients to be more mindful of how much sugar they are consuming and the steps they take to protect their teeth.

ABOUT:

Orange County Dental Care is a general dentistry practice led by Dr. Ali-Reza Etemadieh that is located in Orange, California. The practice specializes in general dentistry for adults and children, pedodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, and endodontics. The state-of-the-art Orange County dental office is located at 665 North Tustin Street, Ste. W, Orange, California 92867. The staff can be reached by calling 714-628-9910 Monday through Friday between the hours of 9am and 5pm and on Saturday between 9am and 3pm. The office has openings on Sundays by appointment only. Visit the practice online at www.orangecountydentalcare.com.