Are Sugar Free Cough Drops Bad For Your Teeth
Coughs are a common ailment that can be remedied by taking cough drops. These drops are available in different flavors and formulations, including sugar-free options, which are becoming increasingly popular. Although sugar-free cough drops may be better for your overall health, you may be wondering if they are bad for your teeth. In this article, we will explore the effects of sugar-free cough drops on your oral health.
What Are Sugar-Free Cough Drops?
Sugar-free cough drops are cough drops that do not contain sugar. Instead, they contain artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol, xylitol, and aspartame. These sweeteners are used to give the cough drops a sweet taste without adding sugar. Sugar-free cough drops are a healthier option for people who are trying to reduce their sugar intake.
How Do Sugar-Free Cough Drops Affect Your Teeth?
Sugar-free cough drops may be a better option for your overall health, but they can still be bad for your teeth. The artificial sweeteners in sugar-free cough drops can cause tooth decay if they are not properly cleaned from your teeth. When you suck on a cough drop, it stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth, which helps to neutralize the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. However, if you let the cough drop sit in your mouth for an extended period, the acids produced by bacteria can still attack your teeth.
Additionally, some sugar-free cough drops contain acidic flavorings such as lemon or lime, which can erode your tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard, protective layer that covers your teeth. When the enamel is eroded, your teeth become more vulnerable to cavities and sensitivity.
How Can You Protect Your Teeth While Taking Sugar-Free Cough Drops?
To protect your teeth while taking sugar-free cough drops, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. When you are taking cough drops, try to avoid letting them sit in your mouth for an extended period. Instead, suck on the cough drop and then spit it out. After you are done taking the cough drop, rinse your mouth with water to remove any residual sugar or acid from your mouth.
If you are experiencing a persistent cough or sore throat, it is important to see a doctor. They can prescribe medications that may be more effective than cough drops and will not have the same negative effects on your teeth.
The Bottom Line
Sugar-free cough drops can be a better option for your overall health than regular cough drops, but they can still be bad for your teeth. The artificial sweeteners and acidic flavorings in sugar-free cough drops can cause tooth decay and enamel erosion if they are not properly cleaned from your teeth. To protect your teeth while taking sugar-free cough drops, practice good oral hygiene and avoid letting the cough drop sit in your mouth for an extended period.