Sharon Kidd considers the impact the habit has on oral health.
Energy drinks are readily accessible, often endorsed by celebrities and sports-related companies and a popular beverage of choice within the UK. While touted as a stimulant for mental and physical performance, they have long been a concern for healthcare professionals, especially within the dental sector. Their highly addictive nature and sugar content can spell disaster for the oral cavity. Energy drink consumption is still thought to be high among various age groups, posing a threat to the population’s oral health.
The implications of energy drink consumption
These beverages are available in a variety of flavours, with vibrant designs and powerful marketing. Comprised of ingredients like caffeine, taurine, vitamins and sugar, in addition to additives like glucuronolactone, flavourings and colourings, most energy drinks contain little that is good for the body. Some studies have found positive associations between energy drinks and physical performance, noting factors like improved memory, alertness and mood. However, numerous adverse effects have also been recognised, such as an increased heart rate and arterial blood pressure, with the high caffeine intake potentially triggering acute/chronic headaches.
Obesity is associated with high sugar consumption, suggesting that the overconsumption of energy drinks could promote increased weight gain.
Considering that popular energy drinks can contain up to 63mg of sugar per can, it would be safe to suggest that those who consume high quantities of these beverages are at risk of adverse health effects, especially when in conjunction with other lifestyle habits. Indeed, statistics from the Oral Health Foundation suggest that approximately one in four British adults depend upon energy drinks to help them through the day.
The UK government has addressed the issue of energy consumption among the under 16s, with many supermarkets imposing a ban on the sale of these items to this age group. However, a recent study postulated that up to a third of UK children consume caffeinated energy drinks on a weekly or monthly basis. For young people, research has found that these products may disrupt sleep duration, or even potentially cause supraventricular extrasystoles (a form of cardiac arrhythmia) in healthy subjects.
Protecting oral health
The devastating effects of energy drinks on oral health have likewise been noted. Studies have found that high and regular consumption of energy drinks is likely to promote dental erosion, in addition to potentially contributing to cervical dentine hypersensitivity. In conjunction with other negative factors such as alcohol consumption and a poor diet, dire effects may start to manifest within the oral cavity, potentially leading to serious complications if a thorough oral hygiene routine isn’t maintained.
While cutting the habit out entirely is best, patients should be mindful of moderation when it comes to the consumption of energy drinks, but it’s challenging for dental professionals to advise patients on their habits. Some individuals may feel judged, and others may not divulge their habit at all. Nevertheless, when armed with relevant oral health advice, patients are in a better position to keep their teeth and gingiva safe from the common effects of energy drinks.
To enhance their oral hygiene routines at home, dental professionals can recommend the Waterpik Water Flosser. Available in a range of models, the Waterpik Water Flosser is easy to use and is needed for only a minute a day. Extensive clinical research supports its efficacy, showing that it can remove up to 99 per cent of plaque and is 50 per cent more effective for improving gum health versus string floss.
Supporting patients
The consumption of energy drinks is just one of the many common habits adopted by the population, in younger and older age groups. While some benefits may be experienced, such as a boost during exercise, energy drinks may put patients at risk of future oral (and general) health complications. By establishing a thorough oral hygiene routine, patients can protect their oral health from the adverse effects of the acids and sugars present in energy drinks.
References available on request.