How does sugar damage teeth
Sugar can significantly impact dental health, primarily by contributing to tooth decay and cavities.
Sugar is a carbohydrate found naturally in many foods and commonly added to processed foods, known for its sweet taste. When sugar is consumed, oral bacteria feed on it and produce acids as a byproduct. These acids attack tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of teeth, leading to demineralization and the formation of cavities. Repeated acid attacks can cause the enamel to break down, resulting in tooth decay. Additionally, sugary foods often stick to teeth, providing a constant food source for bacteria, thus increasing the risk of dental problems if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
Here's how it works and some important related aspects:
How Sugar Damages Teeth
When you eat sugary foods or drinks, the bacteria in your mouth feed on these sugars.
This bacterial feeding produces acids as a byproduct.
These acids can erode the tooth's enamel, the hard outer layer that protects your teeth.
Over time, this erosion leads to the formation of cavities.
Types of Sugar and Their Impact
Sucrose (Table Sugar): Commonly found in sweets, pastries, and sodas, it's highly fermentable and thus very harmful to teeth.
Fructose: Found in fruits and honey. Although natural, it can still cause decay, especially in large quantities or in processed forms.
Lactose: Found in milk and dairy products. Generally less harmful because milk also contains calcium and phosphates, which help remineralize teeth.
Glucose: Found in various foods, it's also a common component of starches that break down into sugars in the mouth.
Different Names for Sugars
Common names include glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose, lactose, dextrose, high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, corn sweetener, raw sugar, syrup, honey, and agave nectar.
How Sugar Causes Cavities
The acid produced by bacteria as they digest sugar in the mouth starts to demineralize the enamel.
Repeated acid attacks cause the enamel to weaken and eventually form a cavity, a permanent damage to the tooth.
What Happens When a Cavity Appears
A small cavity may not cause any symptoms at first.
As it grows, it can cause tooth sensitivity, toothache, visible holes or pits in the teeth, and pain when biting down.
Without treatment, cavities can lead to severe toothache, infection, and even tooth loss.
Best Dental Hygiene Practices
Brushing Twice a Day: Using fluoride toothpaste helps remove food particles and plaque.
Flossing Daily: Removes plaque and food that's beyond your toothbrush's reach.
Regular Dental Checkups: Professional cleaning and examinations help maintain oral health.
Limiting Sugar Intake: Especially important to reduce the risk of cavities.
Eating a Balanced Diet: Helps provide necessary nutrients for oral health.
Using Mouthwash: Antimicrobial mouthwashes can help reduce plaque and remove remaining food particles.
Maintaining these dental hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and other dental problems. It's also important to understand that it's not just the amount of sugar you eat or drink, but also the frequency and duration it stays in contact with your teeth that can contribute to decay.
