Could Your Sports Drink Be Ruining Your Smile?

By , SparkPeople Blogger
As a runner, it isn’t too unusual for me to strap on my fuel belt loaded with four small bottles filled with my all-time favorite sports drink, Accelerade, as I head out for a long run. Not only does a sports drink supply my body with the necessary hydration, it also allows me to replenish the glycogen stores that I will deplete on my long runs, giving me the added energy to continue running.

However, according to research conducted by Dr. Mark Wolff, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Cariology & Comprehensive Care at New York University College of Dentistry, consuming sports drinks over a long period of time can lead to the erosion of tooth enamel for some individuals. It has been noted that as many as 1 in 15 individuals may be affected by this condition which can lead to tooth enamel damage, as well as tooth loss.

In the study, the researchers exposed cow’s teeth to both water and to and various sports drinks. The teeth exposed to the sports drinks over a period of 75-90 minutes showed signs of softened enamel and erosion.

For me, giving up my sports drink is not an option. So what can I do to lessen my risk of developing tooth erosion? Dr. Wolff and his staff recommend reducing one’s intake of sports drinks and to wait at least 30 minutes after consuming the drink before brushing his/her teeth. The reason—the sugar in the sports drinks softens the enamel therefore using a harsh toothpaste will only lead to further tooth damage.

Ironically, this subject has come up on the SparkPeople running boards for quite some time. A few runners have noted that they have seen a sharp increase in tooth decay from those who never had issues before.

Dr. Wolff also suggest that if you, like me, are a frequent consumer of sports drinks, you may want to talk with your dentist to determine if you need to use “an acid-neutralizing remineralizing toothpaste to help re-harden soft enamel."

So the lesson learned is to consume these drinks in moderation and make sure you wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth. Also don’t miss your regular dental visits. Your dentist will make sure you are doing all that you need in order to keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime.

Do you consume sports drinks on a regular basis? Were you surprised by the risk of tooth erosion caused from these drinks? Would the outcome of this study give you cause to stop consuming these products?