We all know that too much sugar is bad for us. But how bad is sugar for your teeth? A high-sugar diet and a poor oral hygiene routine can lead to dental infections, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Knowing how sugar can affect your teeth and knowing what foods and drinks to look for to lower sugar consumption can potentially prevent future dental problems. We’re here to help patients learn more about the link between sugar and oral health and offer routine care as a dentist in Fayetteville, AR.
Sugar Can Damage Your Teeth
The sugars and starches in foods and drinks can affect your teeth if they stay in the mouth and are not removed by brushing or flossing. Sugars and starches attract harmful bacteria that break down the tooth enamel and gum tissue. As harmful bacteria build on the teeth, they can eventually break down the outer layer of the tooth, or the tooth enamel, creating dental cavities. Patients who develop severe decay can lose their teeth or require root canal treatment.
Change Your Forms of Sugar
All foods are okay in moderation. You can still enjoy sweets, but just be aware of your intake. It’s also important to know that sugar can hide where you may not expect it. Some drinks can have high sugar content. Look at the sugar content in bottled smoothies, sports drinks, lemonade, energy drinks, and coffee drinks. Sometimes, these drinks have as much sugar as you need daily!
Fruits and vegetables are good sources of natural sugar. Some fruits and vegetables, like celery and apples, can actually increase saliva production to combat dry mouth and wash away food and bacteria in the mouth. Problems like dry mouth and a lack of saliva production can increase the risk of bacteria buildup.
These foods also contain vitamins and minerals that strengthen the tooth enamel. Drinking water over sugary juice or soda can also benefit your oral health. Fluoridated water can also help rebuild the tooth enamel and wash away bacteria and food left over in the mouth.
Be Aware of Signs of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
You need professional care if you notice emerging signs of problems like tooth decay or gum disease due to sugars and starches left on your teeth and gums.
Common symptoms of tooth decay can include:
- Tooth pain
- Sensitive teeth
- Tooth wear and damage
- Holes or pits in teeth (cavities)
Gum disease:
- Bleeding gums
- Irritated gum tissue
- Gum pockets
If you notice any changes in your teeth or gums, please get in touch with our office so we can find the right treatment to meet your needs.
Brush, Floss, and Recieve Routine Care
A good oral hygiene routine is the first defense against sugar, tooth decay, and gum disease. Brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing at least once a day before brushing can prevent bacterial buildup. Our office also provides routine cleanings that can remove plaque and tartar from the smile. Visiting the dentist twice a year allows us to keep track of your oral health and ensure that you don’t develop gum disease or tooth decay.
Do you need to schedule your next dental cleaning? Call Greenway Dental Care at (479) 217-3178 or request a dental appointment with us online.