We all know that candy is delicious, but is it so bad for your teeth? The answer is yes, but there is a whole lot more to it. It is fine to indulge in sweets now and again, but too much candy too frequently can cause you to have very severe dental issues. Let us now talk about how candy is harmful to your teeth and how you can have healthy teeth. If your teeth are already deteriorated, dental bridges in SE Calgary might be necessary to make your teeth function and look as good as new.
How Candy Affects Your Teeth
When you eat candy, the sugar in it mixes with bacteria in your mouth. It makes the sugar create acid that breaks down your tooth enamel, which is the hard outer surface of your teeth. If the enamel wears off, your teeth are more vulnerable to getting cavities.
Sticky, chewy sweets are even more so because they stick around longer on your teeth, providing more time for the sugar to do its damage. Sour sweets are also dangerous since they have added acids that destroy your enamel faster.
The Role of Saliva
Saliva is the natural mouth protector of the body. It cleans away bits of food and sugar, and it dislodges acids produced by bacteria. But if you consume enormous amounts of candy, particularly without brushing your teeth afterwards, then saliva cannot keep up. This will eventually cause rotting of the teeth and potentially gum disease.
If you’re worried about how sugar will impact your teeth, it’s worth talking to a dentist in SE Calgary who can provide you with customized guidance and frequent check-ups so that your teeth are always as healthy as possible.
What About Sugar-Free Candy?
Sugar-free candy may seem like a safer option, and in many cases, it is. It doesn’t feed the bacteria in your mouth like regular sugar does, which means it doesn’t produce as much harmful acid. But sugar-free doesn’t always mean tooth-friendly. Some of these candies still contain acidic ingredients or artificial sweeteners that can be harsh on your teeth.
Always read labels and enjoy even sugar-free options in moderation. And remember to brush and floss daily to clean your teeth thoroughly. If you’re ever unsure about what’s safe for your teeth, ask a dentist near you for tips on better choices.
Candy and Kids
Kids are especially vulnerable to tooth decay because they love sweets and may not brush properly. Teaching them good habits early, like brushing twice a day, flossing, and drinking water after eating candy, can make a big difference. Encourage your child to see a dentist regularly to catch any problems early.
If your child loses a baby tooth too early because of decay, it could affect how their adult teeth come in. In some cases, dental treatments like dental bridges may be needed to help fill gaps and keep other teeth in place.
Managing Tooth Damage
If your teeth have already been damaged by too much sugar, don’t worry — there are ways to fix it. Dentists can repair cavities with fillings or restore missing teeth with treatments like dental bridges near you. These options can help you chew, speak, and smile with confidence again.
But prevention is always better. Limiting your sugar intake, brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist twice a year can go a long way in keeping your mouth healthy.
Keep Your Smile Sweet with Heritage Smiles Dental
Candy may be tasty, but a healthy smile lasts a lifetime. Whether you need a checkup, treatment for cavities, or help restoring your teeth, Heritage Smiles Dental is here to support you every step of the way. Our friendly team of dentists will help you make smart choices about your oral health without giving up everything you love.
Don’t wait until tooth pain strikes. Protect your teeth from the effects of sugar and stay on top of your dental health. Book your appointment with Heritage Smiles Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile!
