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It has long been known that sugar-heavy diets spell bad news for waistlines, but more and more attention is now being paid to the disastrous impact of high sugar intake on oral health. At Widnes Dental Practice, we place much emphasis on educating our patients about their oral health and the many ways to protect teeth and gums.
Our dentist in Widnes is happy to talk to patients about the destructive role of sugar in destroying the natural teeth of children and adults, and can suggest ways to limit their sugar consumption.
Why is sugar so bad for teeth?
Bad bacteria in the mouth need to be fed in order to grow and accumulate - a build-up that is responsible for the breakdown of tooth enamel and the appearance of cavities. This bad bacteria feeds on the sugar and acids left behind in the mouth after the consumption of acidic and sugar-rich foods and beverages. Once an alarming level of bad bacteria is created, tooth enamel is weakened giving way to cavities and eventual tooth decay, if proper dental care carried out by a professional dentist in Widnes is not sought. In addition to creating cavities, bad bacteria also exposes gums to the risks of gingivitis.
Factors that compound the problem with sugar
There are two factors that feed our compulsion to consume sugar-laden foods and beverages - stress and lack of time – factors that play themselves out in the way we approach our daily diets. It is not uncommon for patients visiting our dentist in Widnes to speak of hectic schedules and stressful lifestyles that make healthy eating a challenge. It is far easier to grab convenience foods on the go, as there is little time or energy left to prepare meals according to recommended dietary guidelines.
Restricting your daily intake of sugar is a good place to start in protecting against oral health problems, as well as your general health. We suggest a number of ways such as the following.
Scrutinise food labels
Sugar goes by more than just one name and learning the various other forms of sugar would be most helpful when reading food labels. It can be a real eye-opener discovering how sugar is hidden in processed foods.
Limiting the frequency of treats and fast food
Having a sugary treat or your favourite fast food once in a while is kinder to your teeth. We suggest that patients ensure they are more meticulous with their brushing and flossing practices after these meals and beverages.
Drink water
Drinking water not only keeps you effectively hydrated, it also plays a role in eliminating bad bacteria from the mouth.
While all of the above are particularly handy tips, they are no substitute for the experienced eye of a professional dentist. A twice yearly dental check-up appointment, or a schedule recommended by our dental practitioner, remains the most reliable way of keeping teeth, gums and overall dental health in optimal condition.
At our Widnes Dental Practice, we have a caring and friendly dental and administration support team ready to assist you, and provide you with exceptional dental care using a patient-centred approach.