Sugar can be dangerous to your health and especially for your teeth. But what if we told you that it’s not the sugar itself that is doing the damage? Understanding the process that happens as soon as sugar hits your mouth and how to take care of your teeth is integral to maintaining good oral health. Here we show you what exactly all that sugar is doing to your teeth.
Demineralization
Your mouth is full 20 billion bacteria, some good and some bad. The bad bacteria feeds on the sugars and creates the organic acids, lactic and acetic. The acids work to destroy your tooth enamel, the protective layer of your tooth. They work to dissolve minerals from the enamel through a process called demineralization.
If not treated, the acids go deeper through the enamel and into the deep layers of the tooth creating cavities and eventually holes in your teeth. You can, however, work to combat the demineralization through a process called remineralization. It’s the battle between demineralization and remineralization in your mouth that will determine the health of your teeth.
Remineralization
Calcium and phosphates from your saliva can help neutralize the acids and repair the act of demineralization. Increasing your daily intake of these minerals in your diet will help reduce the effects of the acids. So, make sure to take in lots of dairy, fruits, and vegetables that are high in fibre, along with green and black teas. These are excellent sources of these minerals.
Another excellent preventative measure is using Fluoride. It works to helps repair the enamel and reverse it in the early stages. Toothpaste is a great source of fluoride that can be utilized daily to help counteract the effects of the acid. However, the fluoride clears rapidly from the oral cavity. Fluoride treatments provided by the dentist is highly recommended as it provides a long term, low release of fluoride.
Sugar-free gum is a recommended method to increase and stimulate salivary flow. Also, consider using a straw when drinking sugary drinks in order to avoid contact with your teeth. But most importantly, following the advice of your dentist, and maintaining daily flossing and brushing, and limiting sugary substances should be your first line of defence.
Being educated about how sugar works to dissolve your enamel is the first step to better prevention. Talk to your dentist to find out what more you can do to improve your oral health.
