The effects of cola consumption on tooth discoloration among dentistry university students.

Background and aim: Carbonated drinks are popular beverages among the general population, including dental students. These drinks, such as Coca-Cola, contain high levels of sugar and acidic components, which can contribute to tooth discoloration. This cross-sectional in vivo study was designed to measure the impact of cola consumption on the colour change of the upper anterior six teeth in dentistry students. The objective was to assess colour changes exclusively. This study aimed to evaluate the discoloration on the anterior surface of anterior teeth of dentistry university students after one month of Cola consumption in different consumption groups.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among first and second-year dental students (N:64). The upper six anterior teeth, including both canines, of each of the 64 students were measured by spectrophotometer, with three measurements taken to record L, a, b, C, H values per tooth region and the averages recorded. After one month of Coca-Cola consumption, the color measurements of these teeth were repeated.

Results: Cola consumption significantly impacted tooth discoloration among dentistry students. Anterior teeth in high-consumption groups showed greater color changes (p < 0.05) across L, a, H, Delta L (ΔL), Delta a (Δa), Delta H (ΔH), Delta E (ΔE) and Delta E₀₀ (ΔE₀₀) values, with marked differences between groups.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that Coca-Cola consumption is common among dental students and may be associated with tooth discoloration. This highlights the importance of oral health education and preventive measures among dental students to minimize the risk of tooth discoloration associated with carbonated drink consumption.