Like most people, you know that sugar is bad for your teeth. After all, you’ve heard that fact from your parents, dentist, friends, and neighbors. Even so, though, you may not know the specific ways sugar impacts oral health. Namely, you might not grasp *how* this processed carb harms your pearly whites. Fortunately for you, your Allen dentist is here to catch you up. Read on to learn about sugar’s oral health effects and some tips for fighting against them.
Sugar’s Effects on Oral Health
Sugar doesn’t hurt your teeth directly. Instead, it causes harmful bacteria to build up in your mouth. As that process occurs, the microbes cause various problems. These issues include the following:
Tooth Decay
The acid produced by sugar-eating bacteria can erode tooth enamel over time. Left untreated, this erosion then decays teeth and causes them to get cavities.
To keep sugar from clinging to your teeth, brush your smile soon after eating.
Gum Disease
The bacteria attracted by sugar don’t just produce acids; they can also cause gum disease in some cases. Should the latter occur, it would create long-term problems for your mouth.
For instance, the condition could advance to periodontitis. This illness is an advanced form of gum disease that destroys both your gums and the bones beneath them. If it progresses too far, it could even lead to tooth loss and other health concerns.
Should You Not Eat Sugar at All?
While the above effects might convince you to swear off sugar, you needn’t do anything that drastic. Instead, practice moderation when it comes to sweets and treats. Some ways to do so are:
- Have Healthier Meals: Eat more foods high in fiber and protein, like nuts, cheese, and leafy greens, to promote strong teeth. Similarly, have fresh fruit, carrots, and celery to wick plaque and bacteria away from your teeth. When possible, opt for sugar-free products instead.
- Get Plenty of Water: When you drink water, you rinse your mouth of lingering sugars and harmful mouth bacteria. Plus, it can help keep you full, making sugar less tempting.
- Curb Your Sugar Cravings: Consider the potential damage to your smile and practice self-discipline. Otherwise, only let yourself indulge occasionally.
In the end, sugar impacts oral health in various negative ways. Therefore, follow the listed tips and tricks to keep it from ruining your smile.
About the Author
Allen Smile Design is based in Allen, TX. As led by Dr. Lewis, our practice goes above and beyond regarding patients’ dental care. That being the case, we offer high-quality treatments that span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency care procedures. You can thus trust us for anything from a dental checkup to tooth replacements like dentures and implants. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (972)-954-9728.