When you pick up snacks from the store, keep your smile in mind! Often, our favorite things to binge while we watch TV could increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. In today’s blog, your Austin, MN, dentists will look at how to choose snacks that keep your smile safe, and how to better care for your teeth and gums from home.
The Dangers of Sugar
When we consume a lot of different foods, snacks, and drinks with high amounts of sugar, the particles of sugar remain trapped on and between the teeth. Bacteria then break down these particles to consume them. In the process, the levels of oral acidity in your smile increases, and your smile becomes coated in a sticky layer of bacterial byproduct known as plaque buildup. Plaque leads to a number of issues for your smile, including weakened enamel, inflamed gum tissue, stained teeth, and bad breath. The buildup increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease! Which is why controlling how much sugar you consume is beneficial for your oral health.
Better Choices for Your Oral Health
First, try to avoid picking up too many sweets, like cookies and candy. Avoid sodas, and even items that may appear healthy, like fruit juice and dried fruit. Examples of smile healthy snack options include fruits, vegetable, low-fat yogurts, nuts, cheeses, whole grain crackers, and sugar-free gum. Try to drink more water too, as this not only hydrates, but help rinse your smile at the same time. Cut back on sodas, energy drinks, and sports drinks. You not only protect your smile, but you also ensure you consume more essential vitamins and minerals in the process!
Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth
Caring for your teeth each day is essential as well. You can start first thing in the morning, by brushing your teeth for two minutes using a toothpaste that contains fluoride. At night, do the same thing again and also floss too. You should move the floss tape up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line, to access and remove trapped food particles. If you have any questions about keeping your smile healthy while you’re home, or if you have a dental emergency that requires immediate attention, teeth please contact our team today.
AUSTIN, MN, DENTISTS RECOMMENDS BETTER SNACK OPTIONS
Our team knows that putting thought into what you snack on could mean a lower risk of cavities and gum disease while you’re sheltering in place! To learn more and schedule an appointment with the Potach and Mitchell Dental Clinic, contact our Austin, MN dental office today by calling 507-437-6312. Our office welcomes patients from Austin, MN and surrounding communities.
