Peer-review started: September 8, 2015
First decision: September 26, 2015
Revised: October 21, 2015
Accepted: January 16, 2016
Article in press: January 19, 2016
Published online: February 20, 2016
Sports and energy drinks are consumed by more people than ever. Sports and energy drinks may enhance physical resistance, stimulate metabolism, prevent rehydration and replace electrolytes during high activity efforts. However, these drinks often have a low pH and are acidic, which can erode enamel and dentin, and increase dentine hypersensitivity. In addition to the adverse effects of sports and energy drinks on tooth structures, they often have the potential to damage restorative materials. These drinks often contain artificial colors which have potential to discolor resin composite materials and glass ionomers. The acidic nature of these drinks could also lead to a degradation, increase in wear, and roughening of the surface of the restorative materials. Many of the negative consequences of sport and energy drinks can be related to their over-consumption among children and teenagers. Patients should be advised to have a healthy diet, and consume soft and energy drinks in moderation, to avoid any negative dental or health consequences. The over-consumption of sports and energy drinks which are high in sugar and have the lowest pH are most likely to cause avoidable dental problems.
Core tip: Dentists have a duty to their patients to give them instructions on the consumption of drinks or foods which can damage dental health. Most food and drinks have little noticeable effects on dental health. Among the drinks that are most likely to damage teeth and restorative materials are sports and energy drinks which contain sugar to feed oral bacterial, and drinks which have a low pH which can erode teeth and increase their sensitivity. Patients who suffer poor oral health because of their over-consumption of sports and energy drinks need to be made aware of the likely causes of their dental problems.