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Ask for a Straw with your Soda

Soft drinks are both sugary and acidic and therefore frequent consumption of these beverages can easily cause tooth decay. However, according to a report in the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry, how you drink them may also be related to the incidence of decay. Drinking directly from a can or from a straw positioned at the front of the mouth appears more harmful than a straw positioned towards the back of the mouth. This location reduces the amount of time the liquid is in the contact with the teeth and can therefore help to minimize the risk of cavities.

In general, it is wisest to limit soda consumption, don't drink a soda before going to bed, don't leave fluids in you mouth before swallowing and avoid brushing immediately after drinking soda - try to rinse your mouth with water first.

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