Effect of sweetening agents in acidic beverages on associated erosion lesions

Accurate diagnosis of erosion defects caused by acidic beverages is essential when designing a comprehensive management strategy that includes combating possible recurrence. The manifestations of erosion lesions associated with acidic beverages are diverse, as seen in the differences and similarities of lesions associated with various regular and diet varieties of beverages. Erosion lesions caused by regular sugar-sweetened beverages display signs similar to dental caries, while lesions resulting from diet, non-sugar-sweetened soft drinks have defects similar to mechanical wear of the dentition. Aggravating factors such as toothbrushing or compromised oral home care could influence the features of erosion lesions. These diverse characteristics of erosion lesions could make identification difficult. This article describes pertinent signs of erosion defects associated with the regular and diet varieties of acidic beverages and discusses their causative factors. This information is designed to avert an improper diagnosis that would derail any restorative intervention and alter a proper preventive management course.