We have all been told by parents and dentists alike why sugar is bad for your teeth. When there are so many delicious sweets to be enjoyed, it can be hard to resist.
Why Sugar Is Bad For Your Teeth
In this post, we will talk about how sugar affects your teeth and your health.
How Does Sugar Affect Teeth?
Consuming sugar is not actually bad for your teeth, but it can be bad for your health if you consume too much. Sugar is said to be bad for your teeth mainly because the bacteria that live in your mouth produce acid after breaking sugar down. These acids, in turn, break down the enamel on your teeth which can increase the chances of developing cavities, tooth decay, or even gum disease.
If you fail to floss or brush your teeth twice a day, the bacteria in your mouth have more chances to destroy your teeth, mainly, the sugar left behind on your teeth. It is critical that you follow a strict oral health routine to prevent sugar from sitting on your teeth where bacteria can feast.
Why Excessive Sugar is Bad For Your Health
Sugar is present just about every food we eat. Even if something doesn’t taste sweet, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t contain sugar. Glucose, which is sugar, seems harmless but can wreak havoc on the body and your oral health. Too much sugar can lead to complications such as diabetes or even coronary artery disease. These can leave your mouth and teeth at risk of decay or gum disease.
Sugar can trigger a spike in your glucose levels, and when they fall, it can cause lethargy. This can make a person pick up unhealthy snacks or even trigger mood swings. These massive swings are bad for your overall health, including your oral health. Too much glucose can also reduce the efficiency of your immune system. When your immune system is not working properly, your oral health will suffer. Gum infections, irritation, and more are often a result of a poorly functioning immune system triggered by excessive sugar consumption.
Sugar and Tooth Decay
Tooth decay and sugar are directly related. Each time you eat a meal that has sugar, the bacteria in your mouth, your saliva, and the sugar molecules all combine to form tooth plaque. Brushing and flossing your teeth helps to combat plaque, but when left on the surface, it slowly begins to eat away at the enamel of your teeth. As the tooth enamel dissolves, the teeth are open to harmful bacteria which can lead to dental caries and gum disease.
Cavities that are caught early can be corrected with a filling. If left to decay, they will lead to oral gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease will progress into periodontitis for which there is no cure. Periodontitis eats away at the tissues of the gums and the bones in your jaw.
Gum Disease Long Term Effects
Sugar is just the start of gum disease and periodontitis. Once these ailments become entrenched in the body, the bacteria can spread to other areas. This can lead to aching joints, poorly functioning connective tissue, and even problems with the lungs, liver and kidneys. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of coronary artery disease and can even cause clots that block critical arteries.
Sugar & Children’s Health
Children are more prone to cavities due to excessive sugar consumption than adults. Not only do children eat more sugary foods, but they are also less vigilant about proper tooth care. Too much sugar can also cause children to become hyperactive. All sugar is not from candy, carbohydrate-rich diets also count as sugar. It is important to teach proper tooth brushing skills in addition to providing a balanced diet to help your children’s teeth stay healthy and strong.
Keeping Your Teeth Healthy
There is no way to completely avoid sugar, and frankly, life would be boring if you did. Instead of avoidance, practice consuming limited amounts instead. Reduce the amount of processed sugar that you eat and also cut back on sodas, premixed juices, and even dried fruit. Brush well after each meal and especially before going to sleep each night. Schedule regular cleanings and checkups with your dentist so that they can catch any problems before they progress too far.
Regency Family Dentistry Omaha | Best Omaha Dentist near Westroads Mall in Regency
Whether your teeth needs are a:
- complete exam and cleaning,
- full-mouth restoration
- or anything in between
We promise to provide you with exceptional care as we enhance the natural beauty of your smile. Below are just some of the many procedures and dental services we regularly provide to our patients – with a gentle touch, and stunning results. Your smile is our first priority, and we’ll give you something to smile about.
Preventative Dentistry
- Dental Exams
- Dental Cleanings
- Oral Cancer Exam
- Fluoride Treatment
- Sealants
- Dental X-Rays
- Home Care
- Nightguards & Mouthguards
Cosmetic Dentistry
- Dental Implants
- Composite Fillings
- Porcelain Crowns
- FixedPorcelain Bridges
- Porcelain Veneers
- Tooth Whitening
Periodontal Disease
- What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- Maintenance
Restorative Dentistry
- Dental Implants
- Inlay Restorations
- Onlay Restorations
- Composite Fillings
- Crowns
- Dentures & Partial Dentures
- Fixed Bridges
- Root Canal Therapy
Oral Surgery
- Wisdom Teeth Extractions
