Sugar and Your Oral Health
While everyone enjoys indulging in sugary treats every now and then, it is important to know how they can damage your teeth. A little bit of sugar here and there isn't going to do any lasting damage, too much can be a recipe for disaster.
In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at how sugar affects your oral health and what you can do to limit the damage.
How Sugar Affects Your Teeth
What does it mean when we hear sugar is "bad for your teeth"? When you consume anything sugary, the bacteria in your mouth converts it into acid. This happens because sugar is a carbohydrate, which consists of small molecules that attach themselves to your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth begin to feed on the sugar, producing an acidic by-product. This acid then attacks the outer layer of your teeth, referred to as enamel.
Over time, this will damage the enamel and lead to tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when the enamel starts to break down and forms holes in your teeth. If not treated, tooth decay can eventually lead to more serious issues such as gum disease, bone loss, heart disease, and cancer.
How to Limit the Damage
First and foremost, brushing your teeth regularly is essential. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day or after every meal will help remove any plaque or acids left behind.
In addition, be sure to floss once or twice a day; this will help remove any food particles stuck between your teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. Furthermore, limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks as much as possible and schedule regular cleanings and check-ups with your dentist every six months. Lastly, it is better to consume sugary treats after a meal instead of as standalone snacks; this will help reduce the amount of time that acid is attacking your teeth.
Caring For Your Dental Health at ProHEALTH Dental
Though tooth decay is not reversible, there are many ways it can be prevented, such as:
- Regularly brushing your teeth.
- Floss daily to remove bacteria and food hiding between your teeth.
- Limit your intake of sugary food and drink.
- Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist.
At ProHEALTH Dental, we are passionate about helping our patients achieve and maintain a healthy smile. We offer a wide range of dental services for patients of all ages. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment.