The exterior of our teeth is made of the most durable substance found in the human body. While this layer of enamel surpasses even our bones in resilience, it does have its limits. The primary enemy of enamel is acid, which can soften it. This acid can result from bacteria consuming sugar from food or acidic drinks like coffee and soda. The steady leaching of minerals from the enamel and our teeth is the core cause of tooth decay. Sugar, in all its forms, remains the primary culprit in the formation of cavities.
How Sugar Aids Bacteria In Causing Tooth Decay
Sugar, in all its forms, is an excellent source of food and energy for bacteria. Streptococcus Mutans, the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, feeds upon it voraciously. The acid creates as a waste product can cause demineralization of our teeth. This process, which describes the loss of minerals from our teeth, causes enamel to become soft. This mineral loss is just one reason it’s essential to limit the amount of sugar you consume. In addition, you should practice the following habits:
- Brush Regularly – Every day, twice a day, no excuses. Throw in a bit of flossing and a quick rinse with mouthwash to get the full effect. This practice helps prevent tooth decay and the formation of biofilm. Biofilms are also known as tartar and plaque.
- Fluoride Toothpaste – Using any form of toothpaste helps reduce problems with tooth decay. Having fluoride in your toothpaste gives you that much more help. Fluoride aids the retention of minerals in our enamel and also helps with remineralization. Enamel bonds with fluoride to become stronger, as well.
- Chew Sugarless Gum – This isn’t just a way to avoid getting excess sugar. Xylitol and sorbitol, found in sugarless gum, have been shown to help remineralization. It also serves as an ersatz toothbrush! The sticky substance helps to remove food particles, bacteria, and biofilms from your teeth. Great news if you love chewing gum!
- Enjoy Fruit Juice, But Not Too Much – Minerals and vitamins appear in fruit juices in abundance. However, it’s also packed with acid and sugar, especially citrus fruits. As a result, you should moderate how much you drink. It’s also a solid idea to follow up your juice with a glass of water.
- Multivitamins Are The Way – Vitamins and minerals are the building blocks of every part of our body. Our gums, teeth, tongue, and jawbone are no exception. Taking a regular multivitamin can provide significant benefits to your overall health. Your dental health will get a boost as well!
These tips will help you keep your smile in fantastic shape for years to come. Every one of them helps you avoid damage from tooth decay. Avoiding sugar is critical to seeing the best results. Without sugar to consume, it’ll be more challenging for bacteria to decay your teeth!
Reach Out To Your Dental Care Provider
Are you seeking more information about how avoiding sugar helps your dental health? Contact your dental care provider to arrange an appointment for a cleaning and consultation. You can consult with their team and get helpful tips to improve your oral health routine during your time there.
