Damaging Effects of Easter Candy

With the Easter holiday quickly approaching, a large amount of candy may be consumed this weekend. While candy is a staple for Easter, it's important to regulate the amount of sugar you and your kids consume. As your trusted dentist in southern Missouri, we know how important it is to take care of your teeth. From decay to cavities, there are a number of ways sugar can damage your teeth. Take a look below to learn exactly how sugar-filled treats can be dangerous to your smile.

How Sugar Damages Teeth:

The Battle on Bacteria

When sugar is consumed, it can react with the bacteria naturally found in your mouth. Sticky candy tends to stick to your teeth when it is consumed. This will mix with the bacteria in your mouth and stick on your teeth. If you or your child do eat some Easter candy, try to reduce the amount of time the sugar is in contact with your teeth. This can be done by brushing after indulging in candy and washing the sugar away by drinking plenty of water.

Enamel Wear Down

Once the sugar sticks the outside of your tooth, it reacts with bacteria and starts to wear down the protective layer on your teeth - your tooth enamel. This protective layer helps to keep germs and bacteria from penetrating deeper into your tooth and causing damage. Once bacteria starts to get under your tooth surface, it can start to eat away at your tooth itself.

Cavities Form

After the bacteria has made its way under your tooth enamel, it will start eating away at your tooth. This is how a cavity is formed. It is essentially a hole in your tooth. Many times a cavity is painful as bacteria eats away at your tooth. If a cavity goes untreated, it can continue to cause pain and other issues.

How to Reduce Sugar Damage:

Brush

It's important to brush your teeth at least two times a day. Try to brush once in the morning and once at night can help keep your oral care routine on track. If you indulge in sugary treats this holiday weekend, consider brushing your teeth another time. It's best to wash sugar off of your teeth as soon as possible to avoid damage.

Floss

Flossing between your teeth can help to clean 40% more of your tooth's surface than brushing alone. It's recommended to floss your teeth at least once a day. Ensure you and your family flosses daily to help improve your oral care routine and avoid damage from the bacteria in your mouth after eating candy.

Monitor Intake

The best way to avoid tooth decay due to sugar is to avoid it all together. We know that may not be as easy as it sounds. Try to monitor the amount of candy consumed this Easter. It can help to keep your sugar intake in check.

Now that you know how sugar can damage your teeth, you can take precautions to avoid tooth decay. As the candy-focused holiday comes around, try to encourage your kids to take it easy on the candy. Consider filling their Easter baskets with goodies that don't damage their teeth. Fruits, nuts, a toy and a favorite movie are just a few ideas of items that won't damage your kids' pearly whites. If you notice a cavity forming, be sure to visit Access Dental and Dentures. We can help fill your cavity to prevent further tooth decay and oral discomfort.

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile!

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