What Causes Mountain Dew Mouth?

Overview

From childhood, you’re told that sugary beverages can harm your teeth. Yet many youngsters facing Mountain Dew Mouth are discovering how accurate those warnings are.

Mountain Dew Mouth denotes the tooth decay that accompanies frequent intake of soft drinks (soda), especially — as you might expect — Mountain Dew.

The phenomenon is prevalent in the Appalachian region of the United States, where 98 percent of individuals experience dental decay before turning 44 years old.

But how does this widespread dental issue arise, and what steps can you take to keep your teeth healthy?

Pictures of Mountain Dew mouth

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How soda harms your teeth

Numerous studies have linked a high consumption of carbonated soft drinks, like Mountain Dew, with increased dental erosion.

Carbonated soft drinks are detrimental to your teeth. It’s straightforward, yet the underlying causes are more nuanced.

A mix of sugars, carbonation, and acids found in the beverages is blamed for the dental harm.

Sugar, carbonation, and acids weaken the enamel—the defensive layer covering your teeth. They also promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth. With enamel compromised, these bacteria can inflict substantial damage.

Mountain Dew Mouth is a phenomenon tied specifically to the green-tinted soft drink Mountain Dew. This soda contains roughly 11 teaspoons of sugar per 12-fluid ounce (360 ml) serving — more than Coca-Cola or Pepsi.

Mountain Dew also contains citric acid, an ingredient commonly used in lemon- or lime-flavored foods and beverages. Experts say this acidic component adds another risk factor to the drink.

How common is it?

Precise prevalence is hard to determine, but soft-drink consumption is at an all-time high. The soft drink industry generates billions annually, and many Americans drink several sodas in a single day.

In certain regions, the rate is even higher. Specialists on Mountain Dew Mouth argue that Americans in Appalachia are especially susceptible because they’re more likely to live in poverty, have limited access to quality dental care, and may be less aware of the harm they’re causing to their teeth. After all, soda is cheaper than milk and has a longer shelf life.

Some researchers estimate that about 98 percent of people in the Appalachian Region experience tooth decay by age 44, with roughly half diagnosed with periodontal disease.

It’s not unusual to see young mothers placing Mountain Dew in their baby’s bottles or young adults with decayed teeth in this region.

What can be done?

One straightforward approach to avoiding Mountain Dew Mouth is to cut back on Mountain Dew and other soft drinks. If quitting isn’t feasible, there are alternatives to lessen the risk.

Drink water. Experts note that sipping these beverages throughout the day increases danger. It bathes your teeth in a continual stream of damaging acids and sugars. Rinsing with plain water afterward, or treating it like a mouthwash, may help lessen the acidity.

See a dentist. Maintaining proper dental care is crucial. Regular dental visits can detect cavities and damage early, before noticeable decay develops.

Delay brushing after drinking. Onestudy indicates that brushing immediately after soda can cause even more harm, since enamel is particularly vulnerable right after exposure to acids. Researchers recommend waiting at least 1 hour after consuming soda before brushing your teeth.

On a broader level, experts have proposed measures such as taxing sodas, restricting their eligibility for food stamps, and enhancing education for high-risk populations.