Are There Any Candies That Are OK For My Smile?

We've all heard the old adage about moderation. Either too little or too much of something is seldom a good thing, especially where diet and lifestyle habits are concerned. While the occasional Snickers bar or pack of Skittles won't necessarily ruin your smile, the key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums is to know how much is too much. Dr. Tyler Myers, a Columbus, GA, based general dentist, advises patients to err on the side of caution when it comes to consuming sweet food and drinks like soda and sweetened fruit juices.

General Dentistry and Preventive Dental Care in Columbus, GA

Most people understand that eating too many sweets and poor oral hygiene habits can lead to cavities, especially in children. But in addition to being a leading cause of tooth decay, sugar interacts with the bacteria in the mouth, which creates acids that can also erode the protective enamel layer of the teeth, making them more vulnerable to staining, sensitivity and decay.

So how much sugar is too much? Although an occasional sweet snack from time to time probably won't cause lasting damage for people with good oral hygiene routines (brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and regular dental exams and cleanings), many seemingly "healthy" foods and drinks contain excessive levels of sugar that can lead to accidental overconsumption.

In order to avoid consuming too much sugar on a regular basis, dentists recommend carefully reading labels on prepackaged foods and candy, drinking plenty of water, limiting processed foods and snacks and practicing good oral hygiene to prevent sugar and acid buildup from wreaking havoc on the smile.

Find a General Dentist in Columbus

Eating a healthy diet, practicing good oral hygiene, and regular visits to the dentist for a check-up and professional cleaning are the best way to prevent cavities and tooth decay and to maintain consistently healthy teeth and gums. For more information, contact North Park Family Dentistry by calling (706) 507-0606 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Myers today.

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