The effects of soft drinks on etched and sealed enamel.

Decalcification around appliances is often a problem for orthodontic patients. This study was undertaken to determine the effects of cola soft drinks on enamel. Twenty-seven extracted teeth were soaked in nine test solutions (different cola drinks) for 72 hours. The scanning electron microscope revealed destruction of enamel in all specimens. Light-cured sealants offered little protection for enamel surfaces. Dark cola drinks containing phosphoric acid should be seen as a true hazard for patients with fixed appliances.