[Health Column] The Betrayal of ‘Zero Sugar’? The Impact of Zero Beverages on Oral Health ✨

 

hello. Director Jae-wook Jeong of Gangnam Saero Dental Clinic no see.

 

Lowered sugar content by using artificial sweeteners instead of sugar Zero Sugar Drinks The craze is really huge, isn't it?

 

Many people believe that since there is no sugar, they won't have to worry about cavities, so they eat to their heart's content.

 

Are zero-calorie drinks really the perfect solution for our dental health?

 

today The Truth About Zero Drinks from an Oral Health Perspective Let's dig deep into this!

 

 

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1. Is 'acidity' the problem with zero-calorie drinks rather than causing cavities? 🍋

👋 Artificial sweeteners themselves do not cause cavities, but their strong acidity can dissolve teeth.

 

Artificial sweeteners such as sucralose or aspartame found in zero-calorie beverages A structure that cavity-causing bacteria cannot break down It doesn't directly cause cavities.

 

However, the real problem is the unique characteristics of the beverage. Acidity (pH) It is located at.

 

The enamel, the outer surface of our teeth, is Corrosion at pH 5.5 or lower It starts to become, but most zero-calorie sodas are much lower than this. Strong acidity between pH 2.5 and 3.5 It takes on.

 

Even without sugar, this acidic component erodes teeth and weakens the surface, resulting in a state that is much more vulnerable to cavities and tooth wear.

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. It's sugar-free, so why does my mouth feel dry? 🌵

👋 Caffeine and additives reduce saliva secretion, creating an environment favorable for bacteria to thrive.

 

Caffeine and artificial additives in carbonated drinks cause dry mouth.

 

Our saliva plays a very important role in neutralizing acidity in the oral cavity and protecting the tooth surface.

 

If you drink zero-calorie beverages too often instead of water, your mouth dries out, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply.

 

This not only causes terrible bad breath, but in the long run, gum disease Caution is required as it could become the main culprit!

 

 

 

 

 

3. How to enjoy zero-calorie drinks while protecting your dental health? 🥤

👋   Please use a straw and be sure to rinse your mouth with water after consumption.

 

Although zero-calorie beverages pose a lower risk of cavities than regular drinks, it is important to change your habits for oral health.

 

 

• Using straws : It reduces the surface area where beverages come into direct contact with the teeth, preventing corrosion caused by acid.

 

• Rinse your mouth with water : Rinse lightly with water immediately after drinking to remove the contents of your mouth Neutralize acidity You must order it.

 

• Brush your teeth after 30 minutes : Brushing immediately after your enamel has been weakened by acidic ingredients can accelerate tooth wear. It is best to wait about 30 minutes before brushing!

 

  

 

 

❓ FAQ

 

Q1. Is sparkling water better for your teeth than Zero Coke? ?

A1. Yes, generally, carbonated water is less harmful.

 

However, sparkling water is also acidic, so it is not as safe as still water. You need to be especially careful with sparkling water flavored with lemon or lime, as it is even more acidic!

 

 

Q2. Are snacks like 'Zero Gum' or 'Zero Jelly' okay? ?

 

A2. There is no sugar, but it is jelly's sticky nature This is the problem.

 

This is because it sticks between the teeth for a long time, keeping the acidity in the mouth high and promoting bacterial growth.

 

In addition, the organic acid components that provide the refreshing taste can cause tooth erosion, so brushing your teeth after consumption is essential!

 

 

 

 

📝 conclusion

 

Zero sugar is just an alternative; it cannot replace water!

Ultimately, even zero-calorie drinks are affected by strong acidity. Tooth erosion It has another risk called

 

For healthy oral care, please avoid the habit of drinking zero-calorie beverages like water, and be sure to practice proper care after consumption.

 

⚠️ Regular dental checkups We recommend that you check the wear condition of your tooth surface in advance through this and enjoy smartly!

 

 

Gangnam Saero Dental Clinic

Director Jeong Jae-wook

Ministry of Health and Welfare Prosthodontics Specialist

Graduate of Yonsei University College of Dentistry

Master's degree from Yonsei University Graduate School of Dentistry

Yonsei University Sinchon Severance Hospital Intern , Completed Prosthodontics Residency

Certified and Regular Member of the Korean Academy of Prosthodontics

Korean Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Implantology (KAOMI) Excellent member

Regular member of the Korean Academy of Temporomandibular Joint and Occlusion

Member of the Korean Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry

jeon ) Adjunct Professor, Yonsei University College of Dentistry

jeon ) Served as Representative Director of Yonsei Good Day Dental Clinic Yangjae Branch

hyeon ) Board of Directors of the Korean Academy of Prosthodontics , Specialist Committee · Academic Affairs Committee

hyeon ) Korean Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Implantology (KAOMI) Director of Academic Planning

 

 

 

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If you would like to check the causes of bad breath and your oral condition in more detail with Director Jae-wook Jeong of Gangnam Saero Dental Clinic >

 

 

 

This column was written with reference to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's National Health Information Portal and related oral health information materials.