PHILADELPHIA, Jul 20, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Popular beverages -- such as
sodas and citric juices -- may be causing teeth to erode, a U.S. dentist says.
Dr. Mohamed Bassiouny of Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia
says in an article published in General Dentistry excessive consumption of
highly acidic beverages such as carbonated drinks can cause tooth structure to
wear away.
"Dental erosion is a demineralization process that affects hard dental tissues
such as enamel and dentin," Bassiouny says in a statement.
Bassiouny recommends having a dental professional check teeth for erosion and if
there is erosion, the dentist can help the patient take three steps to:
-- Identify the source of erosion. Information about the acid content of
commonly consumed foods or beverages may be available online or on the product's
label.
-- Implement measures to control and prevent further damage and possibly restore
damaged tissues.
-- Stop consumption of the suspected food or beverage or at least reduce
consumption of it to the absolute minimum.
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