How Sugar Affects Your Teeth 

While we all love sugar, the truth is that sugar can be very bad for our overall health and our oral health. Indeed, we’ve all heard that sugar can cause cavities—but what really goes on in our mouth when we eat sugar, and how does sugar lead to tooth decay? The following leads you through what you should know about sugar consumption and your oral health. If you have more questions, reach out to our dentist directly. 

What Happens When You Eat Sugar?

You love sugar, and so do the bacteria that live in your mouth. These bacteria feast on sugar and, when they do, they produce acid. This acid is bad news for your teeth, removing minerals and breaking down the tough enamel that protects your teeth. The more sugar you eat, the more frequent these “acid attacks” occur, leading to tooth decay, more commonly known as a cavity. 

Signs of Tooth Decay

In the early stages of tooth decay, a cavity may not be noticeable to you at all. Indeed, this is one of the reasons why it’s so important to see a dentist for a regular examination and checkup at least twice a year. 

Once a cavity progresses, it may lead to pain or discomfort. Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks can also be a sign of a cavity, as the dentin of the tooth may be exposed. 

Foods to Avoid for Dental Health

Fortunately, preventing cavities is easy with smart oral health practices and a healthy diet. It’s strongly recommended that for both your overall health and your oral health, you avoid sugary snacks, sugary beverages, acidic beverages, and sugary foods that are sticky and therefore likely to stay in your mouth for a longer amount of time. 

See Your Dentist Regularly

In addition to paying attention to what you eat, it’s also recommended that you schedule regular checkups with your dentist so that any tooth decay issues or other oral health problems are diagnosed and treated early on. 

In between dental examinations, it’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. If you do consume acidic drinks or sugary foods or beverages, rinsing your mouth after consumption is strongly recommended. The longer the acidity remains in your mouth, the greater your risk of oral health problems. 

Call Distinctive Dental Solutions Today

At Distinctive Dental Solutions, we can answer all of your questions about sugar and tooth decay. We are also accepting new patients and would be glad to schedule time for your first appointment. Reach out to us today to learn more.