How Sugar Affects Your Dental Health?

Sweet tooth, the craving for sugary food. Ironically, sweet/sugar and teeth seldom work well together. Research shows that increased intake of sugar leads to dental caries. In this article, we will tell you how sugar can affect your teeth.

More Than What Meets the Eye

It is often said that your mouth is the doorway to your health. 

Dental health is more than just a perfect smile and cosmetic appeal. People often tend to overlook dental well-being which could lead to mental and physical hassle. According to Harvard Medical School, tooth decay can lead to serious health problems, including brain infections if not treated in time.

Relation Between Your Diet and Dental Health

Your Diet plays an important role in your oral health. With modern lifestyles, the intake of sugar has increased drastically. Popular snacks and beverages are the leading sources of added sugar. Sugar consumed by American adults sums up to  77 gm per day and 81 gm per day by children. 

Appallingly, this amount is much higher than the recommended intake! 

Studies suggest there is a relation between sugar-rich foods and drinks to dental caries. The frequency of sugary food consumed and the type of food also plays a major role in the rate of tooth cavity.  

How Does Sugar Harm Your Teeth?

Sugar, by itself, is not harmful to your teeth. Poor dental hygiene can lead to food getting stuck between your teeth. This enables a thriving ground for bacteria. Sugar acts as a source of food and energy to the bacteria. 

When bacteria break down the sugar, acid is formed. This acid breaks the outer layer of your tooth(enamel) eventually resulting in dental caries. If left unsupervised over a period of time may lead to infection or even a tooth extraction. 

How to Prevent Teeth Damage?

• Drink a lot of water to dissolve the acid caused by the bacteria.
• Brush your teeth twice a day with antibacterial toothpaste as recommended by your dentist and floss to avoid plaque formation. 
• Rinse using mouthwash after every meal, especially after you consume sugary items.
• Reduce consumption of sugary beverages. Using a straw helps reduce sugar-coating your teeth.
• Reduce intake of sweetened snacks during the night.
• Practice a healthy diet with low sugar intake
• Book an appointment with your dentist regularly to do a thorough teeth examination.

For comprehensive dental care, visit our Smile City Dental Clinic at 23884 Copperhill Dr, Santa Clarita, CA 91354, or call us at (661) 252-8888 for a taking a prior appointment.