Halloween is a great time for your kids to dress however they like and roam the streets, only to bring back pounds and pounds of delicious, sugary candy. Although it can be difficult, resisting digging into the candy bag after your kids fall asleep will save you dental work that could’ve been avoided. Sugar is addictive but also very bad for your teeth and causes a number of issues that can significantly reduce your oral health. Here’s how the sugar from your children’s Halloween candy will cause cavities.
How Sugar Develops Cavities
Although our mouth is full of bacteria, some of it is more harmful to your teeth than others. Some of the harmful bacterias grow by using the sugar to create acids that wear away the enamel on your teeth. Those acids cause a hole to develop in your tooth, otherwise known as a cavity. If those holes go unfilled, it can lead to expansion of the whole and possible tooth loss or severe pain.
A Constant Battle in the Mouth
Fortunately, our mouths have a rebuilding system for the constant acid attack. The process of acids breaking down enamel is called demineralization. Your saliva has natural ingredients like calcium and phosphates to remineralize the enamel and make your teeth stronger to combat dissolving acids. Other things we consume can also help fight acids such as fluoride, a mineral found in tap water and toothpaste. Dentists can also provide a fluoride rinse to create an extra boost of protection. This remineralizing process, unfortunately, cannot completely fight the damage of sugar on it’s own. The only way to truly keep acids from demineralizing is to avoid sugars and have a good oral health routine.
A Proactive Oral Health Routine
The best way to avoid cavities is to proactively take care of your teeth. Brushing and flossing twice a day will prevent every day plaque and acids from deteriorating your enamel and teeth. Using mouthwash with fluoride as an extra protectant once a day will also decrease your chances of getting a cavity. Besides every day care, it is imperative for you to visit the dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and check-up. If your dentist suggests getting a cavity filled or a crown replaced, it is best practice to schedule the appointment as soon as possible.
This Halloween, trade in your kid’s Halloween candy for a healthy snack to avoid the inevitable tooth decay. Contact Greenspoint Dental in Houston, Texas to set up cleaning appointments for your family after the season of candy and treats is over to prevent cavities from growing.