Between fast food commercials or standing in the grocery store check-out lane, sugary food and drinks are everywhere. It’s understandable how it’s hard not to reach for a snack or drink. But after you read this blog to learn what sugary food and drinks do to your teeth, you may think twice about how often you reach for a treat!
Sugar & Tooth Decay
Many patients know sugar is bad for teeth, yet many do not know why. At Midtown Dental, our team aims to educate every patient to help them make better oral health choices. That includes helping patients understand the effects of sugar on teeth.
The mouth is full of bacteria, even harmful bacteria that feed on any sugar you consume. When food or drink is consumed, the bacteria work to break it down, but acid that destroys tooth enamel is created during this process.
When the specific acid comes into contact with teeth, the enamel is susceptible to weakening as the acid dissolves the enamel and creates tooth decay.
How to Avoid Tooth Decay
Even though sugary food and drinks highly influence tooth decay, they can still be consumed, and restorations avoided! If you choose to consume sugary foods and drinks, brush your teeth right after.
Cleaning your teeth by brushing and flossing will influence the removal of the bacteria-filled plaque. If brushing is not possible, raw fruits, vegetables, and sugar-free gum can increase saliva flow to dilute sugars and acids in the mouth.
A healthy, balanced diet with low sugar consumption, frequent brushing, and routine dental visits for cleanings and exams are all highly recommended ways to avoid tooth decay. Taking control of your oral health is the best way to prevent sugary food and drinks from taking a toll on your teeth!
Comprehensive Dental Care in Logan, Utah
Whether you’re due for your routine cleaning and exam or suspect you need to restore a tooth after consuming too many sugary food and drinks, our Midtown Dental team is here! Our office is equipped with dental technology to complete various dental treatments. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
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