Understanding the Acidity of Soft Drinks: Health Implications

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), the acidic levels in most soft drinks are below a pH level of 4. There are several consequences of consuming products with these levels of acidity.

Facts

• The pH scale ranges from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic), with 7 being neutral. In a 2007 study published in "General Dentistry," it was established that the pH level in colas is approximately 2.5. Diet colas and lemon-lime soda range from 3 to 3.3, while diet lemon-lime soda is measured at 3.7 and root beer at 4.

Significance

• By comparison, the pH level of tap water is measured between 7 and 7.7. The pH ranges for some other acidic liquids include beer (4 to 5), orange juice (3.3 to 4.2), vinegar (2.4 to 3.4) and lemon juice (2 to 2.6).

Considerations

• Different types of acid are used in different soft drinks, including citric and phosphoric acids. Citric acid, which is most commonly used in non-cola drinks, is the most erosive.

Warning

• According to the AGD, excessively consuming food and beverages with pH levels below 4 can cause tooth erosion.

Prevention/Solution

• Avoiding excessive consumption of soft drinks will limit the effects of their acidity. Additionally, certain toothpastes are made to reharden tooth enamel.