A Family Dentist in Far North Dallas Discusses the Problems with Sugar

One of your goals in the new year is to improve your oral health. A way to go about that is to identify any bad habits that may be harming your teeth and gums like increased sugar intake. Additionally, your family dentist in Far North Dallas provides recommendations for ways to fortify your dental wellness.

How Sugar Can Impact Your Oral Health

The main issue with sugar is that it is the primary food of choice of bacteria. While carbohydrates (foods that contain sugar) like bread, pasta and rice contribute to bacteria growth if the leftovers aren’t sufficiently removed, there are other forms of sugar that can pose an even greater threat to your oral health.

The Candy Problem

A concern with candy is that it contains simple sugars; thus, they break down faster after being eaten. Then, the rapid conversion to glucose (sugar in its simplest form) can cause a spike in new bacteria growth.

Avoiding Cough Drops and Lozenges

Now that flu season is underway, many people are suffering from some form of sickness. Thus, it’s not uncommon to grab a cough drop or lozenge to soothe a soar throat.

There is a potential problem, though. Because many of the brands contain high amounts of sugar, and it’s common to hold the tablet in the mouth until it dissolves, the teeth can be ambushed with acidic saliva.

Run from Desserts

The same problem arises with consuming dessert items, as their higher sugar content can lead to the development of cavities. These foods can be more detrimental, too, because a larger amount will be typically eaten.

Practicing Proper Oral Hygiene

If you decide to consume a product high in sugar, the best remedy is to brush and floss your teeth around a half hour after you finish eating. Here are some of the benefits of following this schedule:

• Waiting 30 minutes to brush your teeth prevents any premature damage to your enamel.
• Performing oral hygiene helps to remove any leftover food particles before they can settle and start the decay process.
• Maintaining proper oral hygiene habits also aids in keeping your mouth moist, which is one of the ways to slow down the growth of bacteria.

The Benefits of Visiting Your Dentist

One of your greatest allies in the fight against poor oral health is your dentist, which is why you should make it a priority to visit every six months for preventive care. During these appointments, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned, and you’ll also receive a tedious examination.

Furthermore, if there are any issues on the horizon, with the help of your children’s dentist in Far North Dallas, they can be neutralized early so you and your family can experience the absolute best in oral health.

About the Author

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, the importance of preventive care is always stressed. One reason is that it provides patients with a way to enjoy cost savings and lessens their chances of needing more complex treatment. To schedule your visit, you can contact one of the professionals through their website.