(Newswire.net — July 1, 2019) — From the very first dentist appointment we have recollection of, we are told that sugar is bad for our teeth and oral health. We grow up knowing that there is a risk of some kind, however, with age, we need to take extra precaution and care. When it is our time to pass down the basic knowledge of taking care of our mouths to our children, will we be able to answer them when they ask “how does sugar cause cavities”?
How Does Sugar Cause Cavities?
How to Cavities form?
There are millions of bacteria already living in the mouth as it is. No matter what you eat and drink, there will always be bacteria continually forming in your mouth. However, certain foods that we eat cause those bacteria to get worse and become diseases and illnesses that form in the mouth. Certain bacteria reacts to sugar by creating an acid that breaks down enamel. Losing enamel can make eating and chewing gum very uncomfortable or even painful and should be treated before the actual tooth becomes damaged or infected.
Ways To Prevent Cavities
Other than brushing our teeth, there are a number of ways to create a healthier mouth environment for your teeth.
- Promote Saliva Production – Salvia has the right amount of minerals to fight against the bad bacteria in your mouth. Ways to promote more saliva production is to chew sugar free gum, eating fibrous fruits and vegetables.
- Increase your calcium intake – Cheese, yogurt and milk all have calcium and phosphates that are best for developing healthy and stronger teeth and bones. Either you can start to add a supplement to your daily routine or include more calcium in your diet.
- Drink fluoride water – Fluoride is a mineral that slows down the process of tooth decay. If you have a water filter at home, be sure that you are including fluoride in your filter. Also, remember to always use fluoride toothpaste.
- Green Tea – The consumption of green tea helps suppress the formation of harmful bacteria because of its cleansing and inflammatory benefits. Drinking a glass twice a day can really show a difference to you and your dentist.
- Stay away from the Treats – Anything with a lot of sugar or starch is bound to make a slight increase in yeast and bacteria from forming and causing a really had mouth infection or health condition.
- Brush Your Teeth – What de we all learn in the early years of life? Brush your teeth, day and night with fluoride toothpaste to prevent gum disease, bad breath and poor oral health. It is said that the effects of toothpaste last about 12 hours which is why most dentist recommended that you brush twice a day or after every meal.
If you’ve ever wondered how does sugar causes cavities, just remember that staying away from sugar in all forms, treats, drinks, desserts can be the best thing you do prevent poor oral health. Continue to brush daily, use toothpaste and keep up with your regular trips to the dentist’s office to prevent early tooth decay and gum disease.