The Facts
During the days of Aristotle, he observed that eating soft figs caused tooth decay. Unfortunately, people did not believe him back then. Today, with modern science and widespread education, it is universally recognized that sugar causes tooth decay, however, many people still feed their kids and themselves too much sugar. One of the main culprits is sugary soft drinks. One recent study involving 20,000 adults discovered that only one occasional soft drink caused a 44% increase in the risk of losing 1 to 5 teeth. In another study from Finland, 1 or 2 sugary soft drinks consumed per day resulted in a 31% higher risk in the formation of cavities. Additionally, an Australian study involving children aged between 5 and 16 discovered a correlation between the number of sugary soft beverages consumed and the number of cavities formed. How many more studies are needed before people start to reduce their sugar intake?
Sugar Cavities
Exactly how does sugar cause so much damage to teeth? The answers are bacterial acids caused by eating too much sugar. The bad mouth bacteria, Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sorbrinus, form dental plaque on the surface of your teeth after digesting those sugars. Usually, brushing and saliva washes the plague away and prevents cavities from forming. Additionally, the minerals in your saliva such as calcium, phosphate, and fluoride help to repair the teeth’s enamel. However, if too many bacteria multiply and drop the mouth’s pH to 5.5 or lower, the resulting acid can cause small tiny holes to slowly develop on the teeth’s enamel causing larger and larger holes to form cavities. That is why it is highly recommended that sugary snacks such as sodas, chips, cookies, candy, cakes. and the like be reduced in daily consumption and replaced with fruits, vegetable, and increased mouth hygiene.
Preventing Tooth Decay
It is highly advised to resist the temptations of sugary sweets, foods, and beverages. Studies show that many people are consuming too many sugars in their diet resulting in increased risk for tooth decay. The solutions are not new, they are just very difficult to follow in a society constantly bombarded with sugary food advertisements 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.
Nevertheless, there are ways to reduce toothaches, cavities, and gum sensitivity. These are brushing your teeth, using mouth wash, and replacing sugary foods with healthier alternatives. Visiting your local dental office for a cavity check-up is also highly recommended. Here in Pleasant View, Utah, you are very welcome to work with us in preventing tooth decay from sugary consumption. At Mountain View Dental, you can relax in our comfortable and professional office. Please feel free to ask any questions concerning the prevention and treatment of tooth decay. Checkups and treatment appointments can also be easily scheduled by phone or by our website at https://www.smilemountainview.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
