Sugar is the main cause of dental decay when bacteria is present. How often you consume sugar is actually more significant than the amount of sugar you eat. One of the worst things you can do for your teeth is to drink a soda slowly, having a sip every few minutes. Snacking is also bad for your teeth. Dr. Blake Lawlor recommends that if you want a snack, soda, or juice, that you have it after food, as a dessert, or that you have it in one sitting. If you eat or drink something sweet over a long period of time, you are creating a constant supply of sugar for decay-causing bacteria.
Be aware of the possible sources of sugar. Sugar is not only in sweet things, but anything that can turn into sugar, like pieces of bread. Cut down on your sugar intake to help prevent cavities and to improve your overall health.
When you have to have sugar, prevent the sugar from staying next to your teeth. Brushing your teeth, using a fluoride mouthwash, or chewing sugarless gum after eating sugar can help. However, nothing has the same effect as avoiding sugar.
There is not any type of food that prevents decay. Some people believe that chewing apples and carrots can remove plaque, but they contain some sugar, so any advantage is not clear.
Acidic food can also cause significant damage to the teeth. Foods like limes, lemons, and grapefruits can cause irreversible damage like erosion, if in frequent contact with the teeth.
We invite you to contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment with our dentist to learn more about dental health and your diet in Wichita, Kansas.