We all know that sugar is bad for our teeth. It’s something we’re told from a young age, and yet people continue to overconsume sugar to the point where their teeth decay. At Epsom Smiles, we care too much about our patients’ oral health to let this continue. We are also of the opinion that knowledge can be a powerful weapon in combating dental issues. Being aware of how sugar ingredients affect dental care in Epsom can be highly beneficial in helping you prevent tooth decay.
Is Sugar Really to Blame?
While it is by no means incorrect that excessive sugar consumption can lead to tooth decay, it is incorrect to claim that sugar itself is entirely to blame. The main perpetrator is lactic acid, a dangerous substance that forms when the sugar you consume reacts with the bacteria in plaque. This acid makes your teeth acidic by lowering their pH level, which dissolves the minerals in your enamel. As enamel is there to shield your teeth from harm, damage to the protective coating can be disastrous, as it leaves your teeth vulnerable and exposed. This ultimately is what leads to tooth decay and cavities.
Avoiding the Impact of Sugar on Your Oral Health
Now you know how sugar ingredients affect dental care in Epsom, you must also learn how to prevent tooth decay from occurring. It probably seems like the obvious answer would be to eliminate sugar from your diet. While this might significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay, it probably isn’t practical or sustainable in the long run. The team at Epsom Smiles therefore suggests limiting the amount of sugar you consume on a daily basis. Perhaps you’re accustomed to adding sugar to your tea or coffee in the morning. If so, maybe reserve the sugar as a treat for weekends! Making small choices like this can have a huge impact and may be the difference between tooth decay and healthy teeth. We advise keeping your sugar intake to mealtimes and only consuming low-sugar snacks in between meals. If you decide to consume sugary drinks, it can help to use a straw, which will limit your teeth’s exposure to sugar.
Outside of your eating habits, it’s extremely important to maintain good oral hygiene. Keeping up with the basics is all it takes to prevent tooth decay. You know them well: brushing twice a day with a toothpaste containing fluoride; flossing on the daily to remove leftover food from between your teeth. If these simple steps are neglected, you’d be surprised at how quickly your teeth will start to deteriorate. If you consume sugary foods, it’s recommended that you rinse out your mouth with tap water in order to wash off as much sugar from your teeth as possible.
Come to Epsom Smiles for Preventive and Restorative Dental Care
Pretty simple, hey? Now that you’re successfully taking all these steps, the only thing you need to do is ensure that you’re attending regular checkups with your dentist. This is extremely important, as it will prevent any underlying issues from going unnoticed. Your dentist can suggest any treatments that might be required, as well as give you plenty of tips on preventive care for your teeth. At Epsom Smiles, our range of treatments is highly extensive and suitable for any problem you might be facing. To find out more about our treatments and how to prevent tooth decay, please get in contact with Epsom Smiles today. Our friendly team will be more than happy to answer any questions and help you book an appointment.
