Sugar is one substance most of us can't avoid even if we don't indulge in it. Even if we avoid that last piece of cheesecake, are you sure that is the only way you consume sugar?
Types of Sugar
There are three kinds of sugars: natural sugar, added sugar, and free sugar.
Natural sugars are beneficial to our body as they provide essential nutrients required to keep us healthy. And then there are added sugars and free sugar that are not suitable for health since they don't contain any health benefits and add extra calories that are harmful to our health.
- Natural sugar: Fruits and dairy products
- Added sugar: Found in manufactured products ranging from syrups to alcohol, baked products to sweets.
- Free sugar: Honey, fruit juice, and syrups
Why Is Sugar Dangerous for Our Teeth?
Our mouth contains different kinds of useful and harmful bacteria for our teeth. The dentist advises us to avoid eating chocolates or anything sweet during consultations most of the time. This is because sugar attracts bad bacteria that cause tooth decay and cavities.
It Changes the Acid Level of the Mouth
Sugar can alter the acid level of our mouth, as our mouth contains two kinds of bacteria called streptococcus mutans and streptococcus sobrinus. These bacteria would consume sugar to form plaque. And plaque, if not cleaned adequately while brushing, stay in our mouth and can change the acid level, causing tooth decay.
It Can Attract Bad Bacteria
Sugar can also attract bacteria that can cause gingivitis and gum disease. These could eventually decay the teeth and damage the protective layer surrounding the teeth.
What Changes Should I Take to Lower My Sugar Intake?
- Choose a healthier sugar alternative
- Learn about how much sugar you should consume in a day
- Switch to eating home-cooked meals
- Lower the intake of food that contains carbohydrates
- Switch to a low-sugar diet
- Don't binge eat sweets and candies, like chewy and hard sweets, fruit leather, or dry fruit. They tend to stick to our teeth.
- Make sure to brush twice a day with a fluoride-based toothpaste.
Now, quitting sugar is easier said than done because sugar is present in our daily diet somehow. It's not easy, but we could make it a tad easier with help, correct advice, and direction.
You can contact us at (727) 376-2299 or email us at info@premierdentalconnections.com to book an appointment or visit Premier Dental Connections at New Port Richey, FL.
