### Mountain Dew and Dental Health From a young age, we're often told that sugary drinks can harm our teeth. One of the most striking examples of this is a condition known as Mountain Dew Mouth. This term refers to severe tooth decay resulting from the frequent consumption of soft drinks, especially Mountain Dew. Mountain Dew Mouth is particularly prevalent in the Appalachian region of the United States, where a staggering 98% of people experience tooth decay before the age of 44. But why does this happen, and what can you do to protect your teeth? #### Why Soft Drinks Harm Your Teeth Soft drinks like Mountain Dew are harmful to your teeth due to their high sugar content, carbonation, and acids. Mountain Dew contains about 11 teaspoons of sugar per 12-ounce serving, more than Coca-Cola or Pepsi. It also has citric acid, which adds another layer of risk. These ingredients weaken tooth enamel, the protective layer on your teeth, and promote the growth of harmful bacteria. Without strong enamel, your teeth are more susceptible to decay and other dental issues. #### How to Protect Your Teeth 1. **Reduce or Stop Drinking Soft Drinks**: The simplest way to avoid Mountain Dew Mouth is to cut down or eliminate soft drinks from your diet. 2. **Drink Water**: If you can't give up soft drinks, try to drink water afterward. It can help wash away some of the acids and sugars. 3. **Visit the Dentist Regularly**: Regular dental check-ups can catch problems early before they become severe. 4. **Wait Before Brushing**: Brushing immediately after drinking soda can cause more damage. Wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth. #### Larger Scale Solutions Experts suggest measures like taxing sodas, restricting their purchase with food stamps, and increasing education about their risks, especially in vulnerable communities. By taking these steps, you can help protect your teeth from the damaging effects of soft drinks like Mountain Dew.