If you love sweet treats, you know they aren’t good for your waistline, but did you know they can be just as detrimental to your smile? Cookies, candy, and other sugary goodies can satisfy your sweet tooth, but they can also erode your enamel. They create cavity-causing bacteria that can lead to decay if you aren’t careful. If you can’t resist your sugar cravings, here are 7 tips to prevent cavities without giving up your favorite treats.
1. Brush More Often
The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice per day. However, if you snack frequently, it’s best to brush after every meal. The more often you eat, the more often your teeth are exposed to cavity-causing bacteria. Consider carrying a travel-sized or disposable toothbrush to take care of your smile, even while on the go.
2. Don’t Forget to Floss
Besides brushing, commit to flossing your teeth at least once per day. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. If you have difficulty using traditional floss, consider a water flosser.
3. Add a Daily Mouthrinse
A mouthrinse can help remove sugary and sticky foods from your teeth. Choose one that contains fluoride to help strengthen your enamel. If you don’t have any mouthwash on hand, water is another great option to wash away any residue on your teeth.
4. Eat Your Sweets with a Meal
Eat your sweets along with your meal instead of waiting for dessert time. Eating stimulates your saliva production to cleanse your teeth between brushing and flossing. Have a salad or crunchy vegetables with your meal, which will act as scrub brushes for your smile.
5. Chew Sugarless Gum
If you can’t get to your toothbrush, chew a piece of sugarless gum. It will increase your saliva production to wash away oral bacteria and plaque. Sucking on a piece of sugarless candy can be an excellent substitute if you don’t have any chewing gum.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Water will keep you hydrated and your mouth moist to reduce oral bacteria. It will also cleanse your teeth and gums from any lingering food particles.
7. Visit Your Dentist
Don’t forget to visit your dentist in Hingham at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. They will remove plaque and tartar accumulations while monitoring your dental health. If they find early stages of decay, your dentist can intervene quickly to preserve your smile.
It’s fine to give in to your sweet tooth occasionally, but your dentist will recommend having sugary treats in moderation. With a commitment to your smile, you can have a cookie or candy without causing long-term harm to your smile.
About Dr. Mohamed Hegazi
Dr. Hegazi earned his dental degree from Tufts University before serving as a Dental Officer for the U.S. Air Force. He has extensive training in many advanced specialties, including oral surgery, sedation dentistry, and dental implants. If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office today.