Too much sugar, and particularly sugary snacks, as part of a regular diet is not good for our bodies or our teeth. Not only can excessive sugar consumption lead to increased risk of high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease but it can also result in unwanted visits to the dentist. This is because the sugar interacts with enzymes and saliva and produces an acidic solution which can corrode tooth enamel.
Damaged tooth enamel will, in turn, lead to:
- Sensitive teeth as the surface enamel is eroded. This exposes the underlying dentin which is sensitive to changes in temperature and certain foods.- Tooth discolouration as the teeth are not properly cleaned by the sugar-rich saliva -- which allows plaque and bacteria to build up on the tooth's surfaces.
- Increased risk of cavities because of damage to the tooth enamel which protects the tooth's inner core. Cavities are more common among people who have “a sweet tooth” and regularly partake of sweets, snacks and sugary drinks.
Substituting fruit for sweets is one of the best ways of protecting the teeth from sugar and sugarless gum may help alleviate your urge for something sweet and bad for the teeth.
More tips can be found at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/top-tips-to-fight-sugar-cravings/