Do you have a particular weakness for chocolate? Does a meal not feel complete without a decadent dessert? Sweet treats are one of life’s little pleasures, but that little pleasure can have big ramifications for your smile if you don’t take proper precautions. Read more to learn about how sugar affects your oral health and how you can safely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Sugar-Loving Bacteria
So what makes sugar so bad for your smile in the first place? Our mouths are home to bacteria that love to feast on sugar. When you eat sweet foods or drinks, like candy or soda, the bacteria go on a feeding frenzy. As the bacteria consume the sugar, they produce acid, which is what really wreaks havoc on your teeth.
Smile-Harming Acid
The acid generated by the bacteria in your mouth begins to eat away at your tooth enamel, weakening your teeth and making them more vulnerable to cavities. This acid attack can last up to twenty minutes after you eat your sugary snack. The more often you eat sugar, the more acid is produced and the higher your risk of developing dental issues as a result.
Tips for Protecting Your Smile
Now, we’re not saying that you should never eat another chocolate chip cookie again. Enjoying sweet treats in moderation is just fine. Here are some pointers to mitigate the consequences of eating sugar.
- Drink Water: Choose water over sugary beverages like soda or juice. After eating sweets, rinse your mouth out with water to help dilute the acid and wash away food particles.
- Beware Hidden Sugar: Sugar can be found in foods you might not suspect, like ketchup, salad dressings, and yogurt. Read nutrition labels to stay informed about sugar levels in the food you eat.
- Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine: Brushing and flossing twice a day is key to counteracting the negative effects of sugar consumption.
Professional Dental Cleanings & Exams in Voorhees and Mount Laurel, NJ
Visit Growing Smiles Pediatric and Family Dentistry twice a year for a routine dental cleaning and exam. Dr. Sekhon and our team will make sure your teeth are in good shape, and we can recommend additional ways to prevent cavities and enjoy your favorite treats without sacrificing your smile. Schedule your next appointment today!