

Oral health plays a huge role in overall wellness. However, not many actually take the time to care for their teeth and gums. Cavities and gum disease are fortunately things you can avoid when you take necessary precautions. A couple of things you have to look into when preventing damage in your teeth is diet. What you ingest can truly wreak havoc in your mouth. Bad oral health can then cause further internal damage that can lead to even worse conditions within. One of the main causes of cavities is sugar. Although very satisfying to consume at the moment, the health effects are certainly not worth it. Not only can a surplus amount lead to damaged teeth, but it can also cause various health scares as well.
Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth feed off of excess sugars from food and drinks. These sugary substances consumed results in the teeth producing more acids to dissolve and latch on. Beverages that are sugary whether naturally or artificially play a huge role in contributing to tooth decay, in fact, the beverages with artificial sweetening can even cause more major damages. Diet sodas, sports drinks, fruit juices, energy drinks, and sweetened coffee all contain high acidity levels which can lead to tooth erosion. Erosion of teeth occurs when acidity latches on to teeth, as it dissolves outer surfaces of the enamel. As the enamel breaks down, the tooth becomes more susceptible to cavities and breakage.
In order to prevent enamel loss, you must be wary of your consumption of sugar every day. Direct content of beverages and foods rich in sugars can lead to long term damage that may be irreversible. Preserving the natural enamel you were born with is key to ensuring you don’t lose your teeth when you age from cavities. Every acid attack and contact your teeth experiences will last roughly 20 minutes which is why dentists usually recommend brushing as soon as you can after you consume any sugary item. Luckily, there are various precautionary measures that can be done to keep your oral health at optimum condition.

Although completely avoiding sugary drinks and foods would be the ultimate prevention of cavities, decay, and erosion, it isn’t exactly a sustainable or enjoyable way of living. Moderation is key, and it’s the only way to allow yourself to stay healthy without completely depriving yourself. Occasionally enjoying your favorite sweet treats is completely fine, just so long as you take care of your teeth shortly after by brushing or at least gargling with mouth wash. Lessening the acidity level in your mouth is vital and can do wonders for your dental hygiene. When possible, use a straw for any drinks that are very sweet, as it will lower your teeth’s exposure to the acid and sugars of the drink.
Once you consume anything sweet, be sure to drink a good amount of water afterward. Tap water preferably that’s been fluoridated can help to rinse your mouth and dilute the sugars the teeth have been exposed to. Also, be sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride will protect and strengthen your enamel to also fight off any sugars your mouth comes in contact with.