How Sugar Affects Oral Health

Changes the Mouth Acidity

Dentists suggest that tooth decay occurs when acid from within our mouth attacks the enamel of the teeth causing cavities and holes to form in our teeth. The sugar we consume interacts with bacteria within the plaque and uses sugar as the energy to release acid and waste product, gradually dissolving the enamel of the teeth.

Breeding Ground for Cavities

If you cannot avoid sugar, you need to maintain proper oral hygiene. This way, you can avoid cavities while still enjoying sugary treats. Keeping your teeth clean and ensuring proper brushing techniques is the key to good oral health. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Don’t let sugar sit in your mouth! Using a mouth rinse regularly can eliminate sticky and sugar residues from your teeth, avoiding unnecessary cavities.

Aids Tooth Decay

Sugar in foods and drinks demineralizes the teeth affecting your enamel. The acid dissolves the tooth’s surface which leads to tooth abscesses, which might result in your tooth having to be removed. To help avoid your tooth from decaying, reduce snacking – it will help reduce the production of acid in your mouth. Reducing the consumption of sugar in beverages and avoiding sugary foods between meals will eventually decrease the risk of tooth decay.

Who Should Be More Careful?

Although everyone should take care of their oral health, Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry suggests that children and adolescents are more at risk of tooth decay.

Watch Your Gums

Swollen, red, or tender gums can be a warning that you need a dental checkup. Bleeding gums when you chew hard foods, brush or floss, feel your gums pull away from your teeth, or have constant bad breath – all are signs of bad oral hygiene.

Gum hygiene is also connected to your overall health. If an infected gum is left untreated, it can affect the bone and can cause fatal infections.

If you live in Summerfield, Oak Ridge, Forest Valley, Friendly Acres, Greensboro or NC and are looking for a dental checkup, feel free to set up an appointment with Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry. Complete our online form, or get in touch with us at (336) 288-9445.