Icy drinks can damage teeth - the doctor warns

Direct contact with cold drinks has become a common way to escape the heat. However, according to dentist Denis Moiseyev, this “cooling” method can pose a serious threat to dental health. He notes that regular consumption of ice-cold drinks can lead to the formation of microcracks between the tooth enamel and the filling.

Despite its high strength, tooth enamel is sensitive to thermal changes. If a cold drink suddenly cools the tooth, this can lead to thermal shock. Microcracks may not be visible to the naked eye, but they can be detected using magnifying devices.

Moiseev says: “The boundaries between the filling and the enamel are particularly vulnerable. Since the thermal expansion properties of these two materials do not match, tension occurs between them when the temperature changes. This can lead to microcracks and, in some cases, even cracks in the enamel around the filling.”

It is also even more dangerous to drink cold drinks after a hot meal. In such cases, a sharp change in temperature creates tension in the enamel. The crystal structure of hydroxyapatite, the main component of enamel, can weaken under the influence of constant heating and cooling, and microscopic defects can appear.

Cold drinks often contain acidic substances - carbonated waters, lemonades and sports drinks, and their pH level is low. This weakens the mineral composition of tooth enamel, making it fragile and easily damaged. Thus, when cold and acidic environments combine, a double threat to teeth arises.

Doctor Moiseyev concludes: “The combined effect of low temperature and acidity can damage tooth enamel. Such conditions can negatively affect the overall condition of the periodontal system and lead to long-term consequences.”

Therefore, even on hot days, it is important to maintain moderation in the consumption of cold drinks and ensure dental health. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!