When you’re worried about sugar, either because you really wish you could eat it but you think it’s going to destroy your smile health (or you eat a lot of it and have a similar worry), then it’s time to learn more about this ingredient. Are the things you think you know about how it affects your oral health right? Or, are they wrong? When you’ve got factual information on your side, it’s easy to make choices (and indulge from time to time) without wondering and stressing about whether you may be placing your smile in harm’s way. Not to worry. Clearing up a misconception or two will guide you in the right direction!
Wrong: If You Stop Eating Sugar, You Won’t Get Cavities
Right: If you stop eating sugar, you’re going to dramatically decrease the fuel you’re giving the bacteria in your mouth, which means you’re greatly decreasing your chance of cavity formation. However! There are other sources that promote decay, so it’s important to remember that this is not a miracle change that will offer full cavity prevention for your smile health.
Wrong: If You Eat Sugar, You’ll Definitely Get Cavities
Right: On the flip side of this scenario, if you do choose to indulge in sweets, you’re not definitely going to end up with tooth decay. Why is this the case? Well, because it’s all about giving bacteria time to eat the sugars, fully digest them, release them, and for those acids (this is the waste products made by bacteria) to cause decay. You can protect your smile health from cavities by doing what you can to immediately rinse your smile clean. Drink water after you eat sugary foods or drinks (and consider brushing around 30 minutes after that). You’ll be more likely to avoid problems!
Get The Skinny On How Sugar Affects Teeth During A Visit
When you see us for a visit, don’t forget that it’s a wonderful time to ask questions that will help you feel more educated about avoiding cavities. Schedule a visit with your dentist in Austin, TX by contacting Austin General Dentistry today at 512-346-5540.
