Sipping Soda Through a Straw May Cut Cavities

Straw Placement May Matter

The 18-year-old drank straight out of a can, often holding the beverage in the right side of his mouth for a while. The 16-year-old used a straw held against her teeth, says the report.

Their tooth decay reflected those drinking styles. Constant, prolonged exposure to sweet, acidic drinks may have played a role, says the report.

For that reason, it may be best to enjoy the occasional soft drink through a straw placed past the teeth, cleaning the mouth soon afterward, says Bassiouny, a professor in Temple's restorative dentistry department.

Industry's Statement

"It is inappropriate to single out soft drinks, other sweetened beverages, or any other factor as THE cause of dental cavities," says the web site of the American Beverage Association (ABA).

The ABA says cavities among U.S. children have fallen for the past 20 years. Reasons for the drop include fluoridated water and toothpaste, better oral hygiene, and greater access to professional dental care, says the ABA.

"The most important things children and adults can do to achieve and maintain good oral health are to eat a variety of foods in moderation, practice appropriate oral hygiene, and visit their dentist regularly," says the ABA.

More Tooth Tips

Moderation is also recommended in an Academy of General Dentistry news release. The academy also offers these tips:

• Don't leave fluids in your mouth when sipping.
• Don't drink soda before going to bed.
• Don't brush immediately after drinking soda. The brush may harm weakened enamel.
• When brushing, use a circular motion. Horizontal brushing can wear away weak enamel.
• If you have a dry mouth, try to avoid carbonated beverages.

SOURCES: Bassiouny, M. General Dentistry, May-June 2005; vol 53: pp 205-210. American Beverage Association: "Nutrition & Health: Dental Health." News release, Academy of General Dentistry. WebMD Medical News: " Soft Drinks: Scapegoats for Kids' Obesity? Soft Drinks: Scapegoats for Kids' Obesity?"