Sugar is a tasty substance that makes food sweet. It is found in every can of soda, in frozen treats, alongside your morning coffee, and more. As tasty as sugar is, you may be surprised to learn that it can also be the culprit responsible for tooth decay.
To understand this, keep in mind that sugar comes in many forms, and it doesn’t always come in a bag of sweets or a chocolate bar. For example, honey and syrup are both types of sugar. Even juice and children’s crackers can harm your teeth.
In this post, a trusted family dentist in Manassas is going to discuss why sugar is bad for your oral health:
Why Is Sugar Bad for Your Teeth?
Sugar can be a big issue for your teeth. It can cause dental cavities and gum disease. It can even lead to tooth loss.
When sugar mixes with bacteria found in plaque on your teeth, it forms a sticky substance called plaque. After a while, plaque begins to harden into a substance called tartar, which makes your teeth more susceptible to cavities.
Sugar can also contribute to the progress of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. If you notice that you have swollen gums or if they bleed easily when you brush, chances are, you are already experiencing gum problems.
Finally, not many people know that sugar can cause tooth damage even without touching your teeth. Consuming food with too much sugar can result in tooth decay simply by encouraging the activity of bacteria in the mouth.
Why Do Your Teeth Hurt When You Eat Sweets?
If you’ve ever eaten something sugary and felt a sharp pain afterward, you may have an early warning sign of tooth decay. That pain is called dental sensitivity, which can be a symptom of an early cavity.
Dental sensitivity usually manifests as a tingling or aching pain in the teeth. That pain, which can be felt throughout the tooth and surrounding areas, can also cause slight, general discomfort in the head, face, and jaw.
How Can You Stop Sugar from Damaging Your Teeth?
If you want to protect your teeth, be sure that you’re brushing them twice each day with fluoride toothpaste. Brushing after every meal is even better. Don’t forget to floss, especially when you eat sticky and sweet food.
You should also try to reduce foods and drinks high in sugar and acid because they can increase damage to your teeth. If you’re serious about preventing tooth decay, you should visit a dentist regularly to have your teeth cleaned and checked.
What Should You Do If Your Teeth Are Already Damaged by Sugar?
If your teeth have already been damaged by sugar and you have a cavity, it is definitely time to visit the dentist to get the necessary treatment. Go as soon as you can so you’ll have a higher chance of saving your teeth from too much damage.
What Are the Treatment Options for Cavities and Decay Caused by Sugar?
A dentist can give you treatment to repair your tooth and fill the cavity with a tooth-colored filling. If the tooth decay is extensive, you may require a root canal. However, if the decay is really advanced and is beyond fixing, an extraction may be necessary, and your dentist might recommend bridges, implants, or dentures, depending on the number of teeth extracted and your specific case.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering, “why is sugar bad for your teeth?” you now have the answer. Sugar will only cause more damage to your teeth if you continue to expose them to it.
However, you can protect your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly. You should visit a family dentist in your area if you start experiencing tooth sensitivity or notice any other symptoms of tooth decay.
Liberia Dental Care offers the expert services of a seasoned family dentist in Manassas, VA. Whether it’s you or your child who needs dental care services, we assure you that you are getting the best possible treatments. Contact us today to schedule your dental visit!
