We know it isn’t easy to avoid sugary foods one hundred percent of the time. However, you can always protect your teeth from the tooth decay that sugars can cause. Here are eight ways you can enjoy your sweets while still maintaining your oral health!
1. Stay away from chewy or long-lasting sweets.
It is important to note that the more time sugars have to linger on your teeth, the more damage they can cause. In fact, bacteria feed on these sugars to create corrosive acids—a process that takes about twenty minutes in total. If you’re still chewing on taffy, for example, by the end of this 20-minute period, you likely won’t brush away the harmful bacteria in time. This means your teeth will have suffered extensive acid attacks. Therefore, keep your desserts quick so you can brush your teeth soon after!
2. Try chewing the right gum.
Did you know there are certain kinds of chewing gum that can actually protect your teeth? Look for the ingredient called xylitol. This sugar substitute can sweeten your gum while also reducing the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Just chew this gum after your dessert to protect your teeth from decay!
3. Wash it down with tap water.
Today, most counties in the United States add fluoride to their drinking water. This mineral naturally fortifies your dental enamel to protect your teeth against tooth decay. Therefore, if you drink tap water with your sweets, you not only wash away some of the sugars but you also strengthen your enamel in the process.
4. Try low-sugar options.
While it may not be the most tempting option, there are a number of low-sugar desserts that taste great and are better for your oral health. Instead of your normal desserts, consider getting low-sugar options like sugarless cake or even fruit.
5. Try disposable toothbrushes.
Eating a lot of sweets on the road? Perhaps you can take your dental hygiene routine with you! Try bringing disposable toothbrushes with you so you can brush away harmful sugars before they can damage your teeth. There are even eco-friendly options!
6. Floss after your dessert.
Flossing is so important, but many patients overlook it! However, when sugary foods get stuck between your teeth for long durations, it can lead to corrosion of the enamel. In fact, cavities often crop up between the teeth. By flossing, you can remove these sugars before the damage is done.
7. Maintain a balanced diet.
When it comes to sweets, moderation is key. Be sure to eat foods that promote oral health so the occasional sweets won’t be as damaging. Leafy greens, fibrous fruits and vegetables, and dairy products are all great for your oral health and strengthen your teeth against decay.
8. Visit your dentist every six months.
If you love sweets, the best thing you can do for your teeth is to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can check for issues like tooth decay and resolve them before the condition worsens. Also, routine teeth cleanings can actually protect your teeth from oral health issues down the road.
To schedule your next dentist appointment, call Manus Dental in Hyde Park, Lake Zurich, or Yorkville today!