Making sure you are doing everything you can to protect your smile is a tiring process, as there are countless threats out there that can negatively influence your smile. While dental decay is by far the most common threat there is, it is far from the only one. In fact, many factors, including your diet, can cause damage to your smile. Because of this, it is important to attend routine checkups and take care of your grin at home to the best of your ability. In today’s blog, your Prairie Village, KS dentist takes a deep dive into the influence your diet has on your smile’s health, as well as what steps you can take to better prioritize it.
Sugar Rots Your Teeth
From a young age, you often hear about the importance of regulating your sugar intake because too much sugar can rot your teeth. While this is true, it is also important to understand the science behind it. You see, oral bacteria are present in every smile, and it is up to us to ensure their impact is mitigated.
These microorganisms feed off of the foods that you consume, with sugars being their favorite. As they consume sugars, it causes bacteria to secrete a harmful acid that actively breaks down your teeth. In its earliest stages, dental decay presents itself as a cavity, and the rest is history.
Because sugar can be so destructive, our team recommends minimizing your intake as much as possible in order to prioritize your oral health and ensure healthy teeth. For more information about this process, reach out to our team today.
Multiple Issues with Sports Drinks
Contrary to popular belief, sports drinks are not as healthy for you as you might initially think. Indeed, many people hold sports drinks in high regard for their ability to provide a large number of necessary electrolytes but bear in mind that they also contain high levels of sugar and sodium as well.
In addition to the hidden ingredients, sports drinks also contain acids that actively wear away the enamel on your teeth. You see, this is your smile’s only natural protection against dangerous threats, and once it is gone, it is gone for good. To learn more about this process, reach out to our team today.
Why Water Is King
While there are so many threats out there, there are also factors that influence your smile in a positive way. Water, for example, is beneficial in that it is zero calories, helps keep your mouth clean, and provides protection for your teeth. Ordinary tap water contains fluoride, which is a naturally occurring mineral that is present in toothpaste. Fluoride actively helps rebuild weak areas of enamel, providing a necessary boost of strength.
Learn More Today
Contact Dr. Stuart Dexter, Prosthodontist in Prairie Village, KS by calling 913-362-8200 to schedule your next appointment with our team today.