How Bad Is Sugar for Your Teeth?

Most of us like a sweet treat or beverage every once in a while, even though we have always been told that sugar impacts oral health. But how bad is it? It seems like sugar is added into everything these days which makes it incredibly difficult to avoid. Continue reading to learn exactly what sugar does to your teeth, what you should cut out of your diet, and what you can use instead that won’t cause harm to your smile.

What Does Sugar Do to Your Teeth?

The reason that sugar can be so harmful for your teeth is because when bacteria break it down, they release an acid that can easily dissolve your tooth enamel and increase your risk of developing both tooth decay and gum disease. If you are skipping out on brushing and flossing, you are leaving this harmful bacteria on your teeth that will cause great damage to your oral health over time. This is why it’s so important that you maintain a good oral hygiene routine, especially if you have eaten something particularly sugary.

What Should I Eliminate from My Diet?

As much as you can, the best thing you can do for your oral health regarding sugar is refrain from consuming products that contain processed or refined sugar. This is the type that is found in candy, soda, and ice cream. Foods that contain natural sugars, like dried fruit, honey, and citrus should only be eaten in moderation. Consuming them often can also be harmful for your smile over time. Eating foods that are higher in fiber and protein are better options. This includes nuts, cheese, carrots, apples, and celery. Drinking plenty of water is great for washing away food particles and bacteria that could lead to oral health problems.

What Should I Have Instead of Sugar?

Sugar-free gum and candies often contain an ingredient called xylitol. This is a sugar alcohol that tastes similar to sugar but doesn’t have any of the acid-promoting qualities that you find with refined sugar. This sweetener is even found in toothpastes and can help prevent cavity causing bacteria. Of course, it is still best to only have xylitol in moderation, but it’s one sweetener that you don’t need to worry about eating away at your smile.

Next time you are reaching for a can of soda or hard candies, keep your oral health in mind. By taking steps now, like avoiding sugar, maintaining good oral hygiene, and seeing your dentist for regular cleanings, you can prevent dental issues from developing in the future.

About the Author

Dr. J. Peter St. Clair is a graduate from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has been in practice for more than two decades. He has numerous professional affiliations including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information how to best take care of your smile or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (978) 948-2030.