ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF CARBONATED DRINKS ON THE ENAMEL OF THE TEETH

ABSTRACT

Assessment of the effects of carbonated drinks on the teeth have been carried out. Five white shelled hard-boiled eggs were placed in clear cups and labelled (Soda Drink, Diet Coke, Coke, Tap Water and Vinegar), with the respective selected liquid poured into the cups and ensured the liquid covers the eggs placed in the cups. The eggs were allowed to sit for 72 hours. At 72 hours the eggs were removed from the cups for inspection. The egg in water showed no changes, this is because the pH of water is very close to the resting pH of the human body. Hence, does not breakdown the teeth. The soda drink caused some softening of the outer shell of the egg and most notably a discoloration of the white egg since it has some amount of acid. The eggs in the no sugar coke and coke with sugar showed total discoloration of the enamel showing a high level of acidic content. The vinegar has a higher level of acidity, hence, a total removal of the shell leaving a very soft egg with its white part (albumen) covering the inner part (yoke). High acid content in some drinks can lead to the demineralization, or weakening, of the tooth’s enamel. This can lead to a total deterioration in oral health.