How Does Sugar Affect Your Teeth – Advice From Your Orthodontist in Vancouver WA

Apple pie on occasion isn’t going to hurt. Just remember to brush.

Most of us love to have something sweet every once in a while. We at Columbia Orthodontics are not exception. Indulging in sweets on occasion is not problematic, such as a pecan pie for Thanksgiving dinner. However, constantly bathing your teeth in sugar can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and oral health in general.

Bacteria feed on the food you eat and create acids. These acid levels help control the bacterial environment in your mouth.  If this bacterial level is either too high or too low, this becomes problematic for your oral health.  If this continues for a long time, the acids created destroy the tooth enamel and result in tooth decay.

While eating the sugary snacks is harmful in small quantities, drinking sugary beverages may be worse.  Sugary beverages wash around in the entire mouth and get into every nook and cranny of your mouth. 

Severe tooth erosion destroys the tooth’s enamel, and can lead to changes in your bite.  If the problem persists further, you may need to have serious dental work done.

Avoiding tooth decay, can be accomplished by doing a few modest things such as brushing and habitually flossing, using mouth wash, arranging regular dental appointments, and trying to shun foods high in sugar.

Completely eliminating sweets from our diets is nearly impossible.  However, there are ways to shield your teeth from tooth erosion or tooth decay.  Be aware of what you are eating and drinking, and make sure you have a healthy daily oral routine.

For more information about sugar and braces contact your Orthodontist in Vancouver WA.

 If you need braces in Battle Ground, WA, then come see us at Columbia Orthodontics. We can help you choose the right braces for you. Click here to learn more or click here to contact us.