“Tooth erosion occurs when acid wears away tooth enamel, which is the glossy, protective outside layer of the tooth. Without the protection of enamel, teeth are more susceptible to developing cavities, as well as becoming sensitive, cracked, and discolored.”
In the case study, the damage of three individuals’ mouths was compared. The first subject admitted to being a methamphetamine user; the second a previously longtime cocaine user; and the third an excessive diet soda drinker (i.e. 2 liters of diet soda daily for three to five years). All subjects admitted to poor oral hygiene, including irregular dental check-ups. Results showed similar damage to each participant’s teeth.
According to Mohamed A. Bassiouny, DMD, MSc, PhD, lead author of the study: “Each person experienced severe tooth erosion caused by the high acid levels present in their ‘drug’ of choice — meth, crack, or soda”.
The active ingredient in soda that causes such damage is citric acid, a weak organic acid and natural preservative/conservative used to add an acidic or sour taste to foods and soft drinks.
Hard to believe that the citric acid found in soda, both regular and diet, can be as harmful as ingredients used in preparing methamphetamine, such as battery acid, lantern fuel, and drain cleaner. In addition, crack cocaine is highly acidic in nature, as well.
Some experts recommend increasing water intake, chewing sugar-free gum or rinsing with water to increase the flow of saliva to reduce damage, however it seems if one is drinking enough soda every day to mimic the damage cause by meth or crack abuse, the real solution might involve rehab.
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SOURCE: Understanding Addictions – Read entire story here.
