The Surprising Way Eating Candy Can Damage Your Teeth

What’s worse than dentures? Decayed teeth! The way candy rots your teeth is more complicated than you might think, but one thing’s certain—bad teeth can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease, which could then cause other health problems like heart disease and diabetes over time. Let’s take a look at the surprising way eating candy can damage your teeth and what you can do to prevent it.

Cavities aren’t just caused by sugary foods

Cavities can be caused by bacteria in your mouth. Brushing your teeth regularly and flossing each day helps to prevent plaque from building up on your teeth. Not only is tooth decay unsightly, but it’s also incredibly painful—especially if you get a root canal! To avoid these problems, brush twice a day and floss once a day. If you have diabetes or are prone to cavities due to an acidic diet, consult with your dentist about other options for preventing tooth decay.

Sugar destroys tooth enamel

Sugar and starches attack teeth in several ways. First, they trigger an increase in acid production, which eats away at tooth enamel. Sugars also lead to plaque formation—and plaque contains bacteria that produce acid, speeding up tooth decay. The best way to help your kids maintain healthy teeth is by limiting their intake of sugar and starchy carbs, along with brushing twice a day (if you can get them to do it!) and flossing regularly.

Gum disease begins with poor oral hygiene

Bad teeth from eating candy is a great example of how easily teeth can decay. If you don’t brush your teeth regularly, you could suffer from gingivitis and even periodontal disease. These problems not only make you more susceptible to tooth decay, but they can also lead to other health problems like diabetes and heart disease. To help avoid gum disease and keep your smile looking its best, practice good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day—and be sure to floss too!

Fluoride protects against cavities and gum disease

Fluoride has been proven to help prevent cavities, periodontal disease, and other tooth and gum problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone between six months and sixteen years old take a daily fluoride supplement of 0.01 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (that’s about one drop for a 25-pound child). Infants younger than six months do not require supplementation as long as they are getting enough in their diet.

You cannot prevent cavities without proper oral hygiene

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease. In addition, floss and rinse at least once a day to remove food particles that can cause decay between teeth or below dental restorations. Make sure you see your dentist every six months for professional cleaning and advice on how to maintain good oral health.

Brushing isn’t enough

If you don’t brush your teeth regularly, you could suffer from gingivitis and even periodontal disease. These problems not only make you more susceptible to tooth decay, but they can also lead to other health problems like diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Brush your teeth after eating candy or sugary snacks. Floss your teeth regularly to help get rid of food particles that cause cavities. Seek professional help if you notice any symptoms of gum disease.

Dentists suggest daily flossing

According to a study by Water Pik, 46% of Americans floss daily. Dentists suggest flossing daily or at least once a week. The combination of that and brushing twice a day is essential for overall oral health. Dentists also suggest replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months because bristles become frayed with time and use. Many people don’t realize how important oral health is in relation to heart health, diabetes prevention, and maintaining overall good health and longevity.

Gum disease spreads quickly among patients who do not maintain proper oral hygiene

Gum disease is a serious, bacterial infection in and around your teeth that begins as gingivitis and progresses to periodontal disease. Gum disease spreads quickly among patients who do not maintain proper oral hygiene; up to 80 percent of patients who seek treatment for gum disease have receding gums, exposing their tooth roots—which can result in other health problems, including diabetes and heart disease. The best way to prevent gum disease is through regular brushing and flossing.

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