Why Sugar Is Destroying Your Teeth
One study showed that 52% of Australians exceed the daily recommended amount of sugar intake recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). But why is this bad? What effect is sugar having on our teeth?
Keep reading to learn why sugar is destroying your teeth and the steps you can take to reduce your sugar intake and protect your teeth from its effects.
What Effect Does Sugar Have On The Teeth?
Sugar is one of the leading causes of cavities. Overeating sugar can encourage the growth of bacteria in the mouth that can eat away at the enamel of your teeth, causing tooth decay. The enamel on your teeth is responsible for protecting them from sensitivity and is the hard part that plays an instrumental role in chewing and breaking down foods.
The sugar and bacteria that form in the mouth can lead to the formation of harmful acids that aids in the enamel’s decay. Therefore, it is essential to practice proper oral care and limit your sugar intake to stop this from happening.
How Can I Fight The Effects Of Sugar On My Teeth?
There are many habits which you can adopt that will help fight the effects of sugar on your teeth.
Drinking Tap Water
Saliva plays a significant role in naturally cleaning your mouth. If you drink plenty of water throughout the day, this can help to increase your saliva production, and the water you drink will cleanse the mouth. However, if you’re drinking bottled water, it will not contain fluoride. Fluoride is an ingredient frequently added to toothpaste that helps kill bacteria in the mouth and keep the teeth healthy and white. So, instead of drinking bottled water, try drinking tap water instead.
Cutting Down Your Sugar Intake
One of the most effective ways to mitigate the effects of sugar on your teeth is to cut down your sugar intake. If you’re consuming less sugar, there will be less food in your mouth for the bacteria, and less damaging acid will form that could break down your enamel.
One of the easiest ways to cut down your sugar intake is to opt for sugar-free drinks. The sugar in carbonated drinks can be easily switched out for sugar-free alternatives. In addition, you can try to consume fewer sugary snacks, which will be better for your overall health.
Increasing Your Calcium Intake
If you wish to maintain a healthy smile, you should increase your calcium intake. A great source of calcium is milk, or if you’re practising a dairy-free lifestyle, you could opt for chia seeds instead. Eating more calcium will help you to maintain strong enamel in your teeth.
Drinking More Tea
Green and black tea have been proven to help fight bacteria in the mouth. Try switching out your morning cup of coffee for a cup of tea, which will help mitigate the presence of sugar in the mouth.
Brushing Regularly
Using fluoride toothpaste and regular brushing is imperative if you wish to maintain good oral hygiene. You should also try to floss regularly to prevent bacteria from forming between your teeth. Mouthwash can also help wash away any bacteria building up, getting into those hard-to-reach areas clean.
Dental Check-Ups
If you wish to maintain healthy enamel and fight the effects of sugar on your teeth, you should visit your Maroubra dental clinic and have regular checkups. In addition, you can get your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist, which will help to destroy any plaque or tartar buildup in the mouth.
Summary
Sugar is one of the worst foods you can consume for your teeth. To ensure your enamel stays healthy, you can follow these tips. Consume less sugar, drink more tap water, and brush your teeth regularly. Contact your dentist in Maroubra to access dental checkups and teeth cleanings for a healthier mouth, as preventative care is the best option for your teeth.
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Hereditary Dental Disorders And Conditions To Watch For
Tips For Helping You Remember To Floss