Sugar is one of the worst enemies of your teeth. It is not necessarily because of the sugar itself but rather because sugar prompts lactic acid production in the mouth. Lactic acid is produced when the bad bacteria in the mouth begins to eat the sugar you consume. Lactic acid is known to lower the pH level in the mouth and dissolve the minerals from the enamel. This means that the teeth can be stripped from their protective coating.
Long story short, sugar consumption can lead to cavities. That is not all! If left untreated, the bacteria will go into the deep layers of your teeth and cause pain. Depending on how long this issue has been going on for, there might even be tooth loss.
Here at Alluvial, we understand that many people have a sweet tooth. We know that removing sugar completely from your daily diet is a big ask. Instead, we have compiled a list of things you can do to minimize the oral health risks associated with sugar intake. However, we highly recommend you come in for a visit as we can determine the best course of action for you!
Brush and Floss Your Teeth
Cavity prevention goes hand-in-hand with oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day will go a long way in impeding the bacteria in your mouth from settling for long enough to cause damage. It is important that you brush and floss your teeth in the right manner.
If you are not familiar with how to properly brush and floss your teeth, don’t worry! Our team is happy to teach you the proper brushing and flossing techniques during your next cleaning appointment. If you are not scheduled for your upcoming cleaning, please contact us to set up your appointment.
Be Mindful of Your Food Purchases
All of the products at the grocery store have an ingredients list on the back. Food items with natural sweeteners are a better option than those that list glucose and sucrose on the label. Natural sweeteners often have vitamins, minerals, and even fibre. On the other hand, glucose and sucrose are industrial refined sugars. It is best to stay away from glucose and sucrose if possible.
Avoid Soft Drinks
Soft drinks including coca cola, pepsi, and other carbonated drinks tend to be packed with sugar. It is highly recommended that you avoid the consumption of these drinks or at least diminish the amounts you currently drink. The good news is that there are plenty of delicious and healthy alternatives such as flavoured waters and natural juices. These options are not only better for your oral health but also for your overall health.
Visit Us for Bi-Annual Cleanings and Checkups
Dental cleanings and checkups are very important for your oral health. Besides removing any gunk from your teeth, our team also gets to identify any issues that you might be having before they escalate. This is only possible when you commit to your bi-annual cleanings and checkups. Otherwise, issues can go unnoticed until they become bigger problems.
We are always happy to help you keep a healthy and vibrant smile. Our team is equipped to assist you with any concerns you might have. Book your visit for your upcoming cleaning with us and bring any questions you might have with regards to your dental care our way. Alternatively, feel free to submit a photo of your teeth to get a detailed quote before you come in!
