Gregory J. Daniels DDS has been providing dentistry services for more than 30 years. Throughout his career, Gregory J. Daniels DDS has witnessed firsthand the impact that excessive consumption of sugary and acidic beverages can have on teeth. Gregory J. Daniels DDS and his team have treated many difficult oral health challenges and he reminds readers that tooth decay from soda is one that is completely avoidable.

Gregory J. Daniels DDS notes research findings published in General Dentistry. This study revealed a shocking similarity in the extensive tooth decay suffered by a patient who drank a 2-liter bottle of diet soda every day for three to five years and that of a self-described methamphetamine addict and a crack-cocaine addict. All three subjects admitted to poor dental hygiene throughout their lives, in addition to their drug and soda consumption. While the study was small, Gregory J. Daniels DDS explains that this revelation has shed renewed light on the ill effects of soda.

As Gregory J. Daniels DDS confirms, the sugar and acid found in soda are problematic. While people most commonly blame the high sugar content in sodas for dental issues, it is really the acid in soda that is most harmful, says Gregory J. Daniels DDS. Soda often contains citric, carbonic and/or phosphoric acid, all of which have erosive properties that can damage teeth. Similarly, methamphetamine and crack-cocaine also contain acids, sometimes battery acid, drain cleaner, or even lantern fuel. The acid breaks down the protective enamel on teeth, explains Gregory J. Daniels DDS, thus leading to increased tooth decay, sensitivity, cracks and discoloration of the teeth, as noted in the research findings.

For better oral health, Gregory J. Daniels DDS encourages patients to avoid soda and drink water instead. As Gregory J. Daniels DDS explains, diet soda or “zero” sodas are still harmful. WhiIe diet sodas are slightly less harmful than regular sodas due to lower sugar content, says Gregory J. Daniels DDS, diet sodas still contain erosive acid. If water isn’t an appealing replacement, Gregory J. Daniels DDS, advises his patients to cut down on the amount of soda consumed, rinse the mouth with water, or chew sugar-free gum after consuming soda to minimize the erosion caused by acid.

Gregory J. Daniels DDS cautions parents in particular when it comes to excessive soda consumption. As Gregory J. Daniels DDS confirms, today the average size of a soda is nearly 20 ounces, and some teens drink as many as 12 sodas a day. This excessive consumption of sugary, acidic drinks causes serious damage to teeth that will have long-term effects on the very young patients who visit Gregory J. Daniels DDS and his team. Children develop lifelong habits at a very young age and will replace soda with water if they are encouraged to do so starting today, says Gregory J. Daniels DDS.

Along with his team, Gregory J. Daniels DDS serves patients in Hinsdale, a western suburb of Chicago. Gregory J. Daniels DDS has developed a reputation as a kind, caring dentist who puts quality care first. When he’s not in the office, Gregory J. Daniels, DDS, spends time biking and traveling.   go to hinsdaledentist.com