Energy Drinks: Simple Additions to Minimize Tooth Damage

Calcium-fortified energy drinks may mitigate tooth damage, though the impact on flavor remains uncertain.

Research reveals that dental enamel starts to erode when exposed to liquids with a pH below 5.5.

Investigating solutions, Eric Jacom from the University of Rio Grande and Grande in Brazil, along with his team, experimented with adding calcium and other minerals to standard Red Bull to assess the pH impact.

Notable combinations included calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, raising pH from 3.96 (for standard Red Bull) to 5.27, while dicoum malonate and calcium citrate both increased acidity.

The researchers exposed enamel samples from donated human teeth to these enhanced energy drinks for two minutes, evaluating changes in texture, hardness, and other indicators of enamel erosion.

All calcium-enriched variants showed less effect on roughness compared to the unmodified Red Bull, despite having a lower pH. Experts believe this might be due to calcium’s regenerative properties, which aid in mineral deposition on enamel to repair natural wear.

The formulation containing 2.15 grams of calcium-phosphorus-potassium mix and 2.5 grams of dicoum malate sustained enamel hardness. However, the former offers the most protective benefits, demonstrating a dual action of lowering calcium depletion while reducing acidity.

Future investigations should focus on identifying the optimal calcium formulation and the minimum concentration necessary to minimize enamel erosion, the researchers noted in their paper. Additionally, it is crucial to determine if calcium enhancement influences drink preferences and consumption patterns.

Before any shifts in formulation, David Bartlett from King’s College London advises that it’s premature to adjust energy drink compositions. “We recommend avoiding acidic foods or drinks between meals.” Consuming acidic foods and beverages in moderation is seen as less harmful since increased saliva helps neutralize some acid.

A representative from the UK Soft Drinks Association stated: “It’s important to reiterate that all soft beverages can be safely enjoyed within a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Red Bull has not responded to requests for comment.