When it comes to taking care of your oral health, you have likely heard plenty about how bad sugar is. From when you were younger to now, it might’ve been ingrained into you that indulging in foods and drinks high in it equals cavities. That said, you might wonder how sugar actually causes problems. Here’s what you should know and how keeping up with your grin can avoid any trouble.
How Exactly Does Sugar Affect My Teeth?
Sugar itself doesn’t necessarily harm your oral health, but rather, it’s because it feeds bacteria in your mouth. When they eat these particles, they produce an acid that can erode your enamel. This outer layer of your teeth is responsible for protecting the sensitive inner portions. When it’s compromised, you may be at a higher risk of dental problems, like decay, gum disease, and the like.
With that said, sugar is still trouble for your overall health. It can cause spikes and dips in your blood glucose. When it fluctuates, you may feel unwell and tired. Overindulging may also increase your risk of obesity, heart disease, some types of cancer, and diabetes. Issues like these can still cause problems for your smile in other ways.
What Can I Do to Protect My Smile from Trouble?
Although sugar can be trouble, you shouldn’t stop eating it. After all, it’s a simple pleasure that can lift your mood. These are a few ways you can still get your sweet fix while protecting your smile:
- Reach for more sugar-free options. While they may not taste exactly the same, they can help curb your cravings a bit.
- Eat sugary treats with meals. That way, the particles rinse away since your main course promotes saliva production.
- Keep sweets in moderation. This can simply help lower the negative impact it has on your oral health.
- Don’t forget to brush and floss twice daily. However, if you just had something sugary or acidic, wait 30 minutes. Your enamel may be softened after eating them, so scrubbing right away can lead to tiny scratches.
Lastly, don’t forget to visit your dentist! By going to your semi-annual checkups and cleanings, your provider can watch for any red flags and put a stop to them while they are minor. That way, your smile stays in great shape, and your diet can still vary.
About the Author
Dr. Dhiren Ahir earned his dental degree from New York University College of Dentistry. He has over 20 years of experience, which he uses to shape smiles in Denton. Dr. Ahir works to prevent issues, but offers a wide range of treatments if there is anything awry. If you want to make sure your grin is in the best shape possible, schedule an appointment or call his office at (940) 514-0333.