As you go about your day, you may be thinking about what sweet you should indulge in at any point. It’s a great pick-me-up after doing your routine, but you should make sure you aren’t putting your oral health under attack! These treats are usually full of sugar, so you may increase your risk of cavities if you aren’t careful. Thankfully, by following these four tips, you can find a balance between these foods and your smile.
Eat Sweets at the Right Time
While you may have a small candy throughout the day, snacking can be harmful. That’s because you are constantly introducing sweets to your mouth. Instead, you should pair it with your meals. When you eat these main courses, you produce more saliva. Your mouth will already be moist, so you can wash away sugar particles. Rinsing with water afterward can be even better!
Be Picky About Your Candy
You should also be choosy about what candies you eat. Some put you at a higher risk of cavities than others, such as:
- Sticky sweets like taffy and caramel can easily get stuck between your teeth. They are harder to wash away, which gives bacteria more time to cause issues.
- Hard treats need to be sucked on for a while, exposing your enamel to sugar for longer.
- Drinks like soda are acidic and full of sugar.
- Sour candies are also very acidic, wearing down the top layer of your teeth more easily.
Instead, reach for better options that are soft and easy to dissolve, like chocolate. While the dark version is better, both can melt faster.
Don’t Forget to Brush and Floss
A great way you can fight back against cavities is by brushing your teeth after enjoying something sweet. It helps clean bacteria and plaque on your smile, so consider keeping a travel toothbrush on hand. Rinsing with water or chewing sugar-free gum can also be helpful if you can’t do this right away. They help promote saliva production while neutralizing acids.
However, if you had anything acidic, then you should wait 30 minutes. Items like these soften your enamel, so brushing immediately can cause damage or scratches.
Visit Your Dentist Consistently
Last but not least, you should see your dentist twice every year! They are trained to help your oral health be the best it can be by preventing dental problems, offering fluoride treatments, and fixing up minor cavities before they get bigger.
You can even get advice on your habits! That way, you can fulfill your sweet tooth without harming your smile. Keep these tips in mind, and you can enjoy your favorite treat while knowing your grin is staying strong.
About the Author
Dr. Erin Peters earned her dental degree from the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. She has years of experience under her belt that she uses to give the Little Ferry community the highest-quality care possible. Dr. Peters’ goal is to stay proactive about your smile, taking problems before they become big with preventive care. If it’s time for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call her office at (201) 641-9119.