It’s hard to imagine anyone saying no to sugar, but too much of it harms your oral and bodily health. While it’s ok to have sugar in moderation, too much can create cavities, tooth decay and, in severe cases, tooth loss.
The state of your oral health is linked to the rest of your body, which means that any condition that occurs in your mouth has the potential to travel elsewhere if left untreated. Sugar is known to create many issues that affect the rest of the body.
Why Is Sugar Bad for Teeth?
Plaque and tartar are caused by bacteria that are left on your teeth. Without proper hygiene, bacteria will deteriorate your tooth enamel. In order to thrive, bacteria feed on nutrients that allow it to grow and spread. Bacteria’s favorite food is sugar, which can be found in excess in several of the foods that you eat.
Whether you are eating natural or processed sugar, the substance is detrimental to your teeth. That’s why it’s important for you to brush, floss and visit your dentist regularly to ensure that sugar is not creating any undue harm. Without consistent oral hygiene practices, bacteria will continue to spread, causing cavities, gum disease and other conditions that can seriously affect the health and appearance of your teeth.
How Can You Reduce Your Sugar Intake?
Protecting your teeth starts with being mindful of what you consume. Limiting the number of sugary drinks and candy you eat is one of the steps you can take to creating a healthier smile.
Of course, avoiding sugar altogether is nearly impossible, and you deserve to eat a sweet treat every now and then. When you do, then be sure to rinse your mouth afterward to limit the amount of sugar left on your teeth and therefore reduce bacterial growth in your smile. Additionally, you can opt for sugar-free versions of your favorite foods and drinks, which help preserve your smile.
For children, sugar consumption should be closely monitored by parents as it can cause cavities early on. Rather than feed children processed sugars, improve their diet with veggies and some fruits that keep teeth clean and promote bodily health.
Call to Learn More!
You can get more information about the dangers of sugar consumption during a consultation in our office. Call our team at Hughes Denatl Group to schedule your appointment!
