Serving patients of Erwin, Jonesborough, and Greeneville TN
Do you ever read labels on packaged food? If you don’t, you may be surprised to know that sugar, or derivatives of it, are found in most packaged foods you purchase at the grocery store. It’s no wonder that we’ve become a society with such as sweet tooth. However, sugar is not as sweet to your oral or overall health. Consuming foods and beverages that contain sugar can damage the protective layer of your dental enamel, not to mention cause weight gain and an increased risk of diabetes. The experienced Erwin dentists near you at Tusculum Dental Care share the truth about sugar and how you can protect your smile from its not-so-sweet effects on your health.
Timing is Everything
Whether it is high-fructose corn syrup or regular sugar, the interactions with natural bacteria in your mouth are the same. Harmful bacteria consume sugar and secrete acids that wear away the protective enamel on your teeth, resulting in cavities. As you sip and eat your way through the day, your teeth are always under attack and bathed in harmful sugar. After each drink and bite, it takes about 20 minutes for your body to process the amount of sugar and remove it from your mouth through salivation.
The Jonesborough family dentists explain that constant inundation of sugar on your teeth may lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. However, instead of sipping your sugary beverage throughout the day, consume your serving in a shorter time to limit sugar exposure to your teeth. Once you finish your drink, brushing your teeth can remove most of the harmful bacteria. But, if you are in a situation where brushing is not an option, drinking water between sugary drinks and foods can rinse most of the sugar away.
When Possible, Avoid Sugar
The American diet is full of hidden sources of sugar that could attack your teeth. Therefore, the best way to avoid sugar damage is to review product labels before consuming the item. Most processed foods have sugar or a sugar derivative included in the ingredients, so finding “sugar-free” options are best for your oral and overall health. The friendly dentists in Greeneville understand that avoiding all sugar-filled products is challenging since it is a common ingredient that can be difficult to avoid. However, limiting or reducing your consumption of known sugary foods and beverages can help lower your risk of developing cavities and other advanced dental conditions.
Preventative Care
The most proven way to prevent cavities and tooth decay is through preventative measures. Limiting your sugar intake, consuming sugar in one sitting rather than all day, and daily taking care of your teeth can help reduce your risk of tooth decay. Also, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and visiting your professional Erwin dentists once every six months to help uncover potential problems before they become more severe. Regularly drinking fluoridated water can help rebuild lost tooth enamel and keep the sugar attacks to a minimum.
Family Dentists in Greeneville, Jonesborough, and Erwin, Tennessee
The holiday season can be one of the most challenging times of year to protect your smile. Food and beverages flow at holiday gatherings and celebrations, whether you are home or visiting friends or family. From your favorite decorated holiday cookies to a glass containing alcoholic beverages, your teeth are consistently under fire. Protecting your teeth during the holiday season is critical, so contact your Erwin family dentists at Tusculum Dental Care for a checkup and cleaning today. Call our office at (423) 639-7575 or request an appointment online so we can help you keep smiling through the new year.