Every day, sugary, acidic, and carbonated drinks pass through our mouths, stressing tooth enamel already challenged by food and brushing.
To identify beverages best consumed in moderation for optimal oral health, scientists from the UK's Oral Health Foundation tested their long-term corrosive effects on tooth enamel.
Researchers selected five healthy human teeth, placing each in a sterile jar filled with a different drink. Over 14 days, they monitored the teeth, then analyzed enamel damage—the mineral-rich (96%) protective layer covering teeth.
Damage scores out of 10 reflect each drink's abrasive and corrosive impact based on the tooth's condition after 14 days. Higher scores indicate greater harm.
Energy Drink
With 96 grams of sugar per liter and acidic pH, it caused etching and chipping, signaling demineralization. Damage score: 8/10.
Cider
Containing 110 grams of sugar per liter and acidic pH, it severely decalcified enamel. Prolonged exposure could cause extreme pain and tooth loss. Damage score: 9/10.
Prosecco
At 20 grams of sugar per liter with acidic pH, enamel started white and shiny but dissolved after two weeks, leading to crumbling. Damage score: 7/10.
Cola
With 110 grams of sugar per liter and highly acidic pH, it turned the tooth brown from dyes and broke it in half due to severe demineralization. Damage score: 9/10.
Water
pH-neutral and sugar-free, it caused no damage. Score: 0/10.
Dr. Ben Atkins, dentist and Oral Health Foundation trustee, notes that aside from milk and water, all tested drinks pose enamel erosion risks.
