In order to ensure your smile is healthy for life, you need to take care to brush and floss routinely, attend six-month dental checkups and cleanings, and pay mind to what you eat. While dental decay is arguably the most common concern out there, it is not the only one by far, and many items can damage your smile in more ways than you expect. In today’s blog, your Overland Park, KS dentist takes a look at the role your diet plays when it comes to your smile’s health, as well as what steps you can take to ensure it is properly cared for.
Sugars Increase Your Chances of Decay
Whether you are aware of it or not, dental decay affects millions of individuals every year in a variety of different forms. It sets in when oral bacteria secrete harmful acids that eat away at your tooth’s structure, exposing the more sensitive tissues to infection.
In its earliest stages, decay begins as a cavity that is often exacerbated by sugar. You see, sugar excites these bacteria, causing them to destroy structures at an even faster rate. If you do not seek treatment in a timely manner, it can quickly compromise and consume an entire tooth.
Because of this, your dentist recommends limiting your intake of sugar to help mitigate the damage that can ensue. What’s more? If you consume a sugary food item or beverage, always take care to brush your teeth afterward so that the sugars do not rest in and around your teeth. For more information about this process, reach out to our team today.
Enamel Erosion from Citrus
Fruits are a naturally sweet, delicious alternative to processed sugars. Keep in mind, however, that they come with their own set of concerns. For instance, fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and berries all contain high levels of acidity, and these acids are no friends to teeth. In fact, acids erode your natural level of enamel, which is your smile’s only natural defense against infection.
Once enamel is gone, it is gone for good and will not come back. To mitigate this damage, your dentist may recommend consuming citrus in smaller amounts and in moderation, as well as taking care to consume water, as it contains fluoride that can help strengthen your enamel.
The Dangers of Sports Drinks
While sports drinks are highly regarded because of their ability to provide large amounts of electrolytes, bear in mind that not all is as it seems. As a matter of fact, many sports drinks contain acids that erode your teeth as well as excess sugars that contribute to decay.
Learn More Today
Contact Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS by calling 913-381-2600 to schedule your next appointment with our team and learn more about the impact your diet has on your smile.