Is the consumption of beverages and food associated to dental erosion? A cross-sectional study in Portuguese athletes

Abstract

ObjectivesThis cross-sectional study aimed to investigate if the consumption of acidic food and beverages, including energy drinks is associated with dental erosion in athletes. MethodsA questionnaire was applied in 110 athletes (swimmers, bodybuilders, football players, boxers, volleyball players and runners) to collect training and sport practice data, medical history and oral hygiene habits. A semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used for acidic beverages and food consumption. The Basic erosive wear examination index was used to evaluate the presence of dental erosion lesions. Participants were organized into 4 groups: swimmers who consumed or did not consume energy drinks, and athletes (except swimmers) who consumed or did not consume energy drinks. ResultsThe prevalence of dental erosion was 83.6%. Of the 110 participants, 49.1% had low risk of erosion, 6.4% had an average risk of erosion, and 0.9% presented high risk of erosion. According to the multivariate logistic analysis, red wine (OR=1.6; P=0.038), citrus fruit (OR=1.3; P=0.037), frequency of tooth brushing (OR=2.3; P=0.018), energy drinks consumption in swimmers (OR=15.2; P<0.001), and energy drinks consumption in athletes (OR=6.3; P=0.003) were significant risk factors of dental erosion, whereas spicy food was a protective factor (OR=0.64; P=0.024). ConclusionsThe consumption of energy drinks by swimmers more than doubles the chance of dental erosion (BEWE score of “at least low risk”) when compared with non-swimmer athletes consuming the same energy drinks. Athletes consuming energy drinks should be clinical and regularly supervised, especially for dental erosion.