Avoiding Simple Carbs Can Help Your Teeth Stay Healthy

Anyone who has ever been to the dentist has likely been warned against eating too many sweets.

Many sweet treats contain simple carbohydrates, which can be damaging to the teeth. If you want to keep your mouth healthy, you’ll need to limit them.

What Are Simple Carbohydrates?

Simple carbohydrates are sugars. They are found naturally in foods like fruits, vegetables, and milk, but these typically aren’t the problem when it comes to your oral health. The carbohydrates in these food items are usually found at low levels, and the other health benefits of these foods outweigh the simple carb risks. Other foods containing simple carbohydrates include soda, syrups, table sugar, candy, and items high in refined sugars.

Simple Carbohydrates and Tooth Decay

When you fill your diet with simple carbohydrates, you can experience tooth decay. Sugar reacts with the bacteria in your mouth, sticking to the teeth and forming plaque. The bacteria then feed on the sugars and will start to break down the enamel. With time, this can result in a cavity and tooth decay.

Keeping Your Teeth Safe When You Eat Simple Carbs

Like any food, moderation is key when it comes to simple carbohydrates. No one is saying that you can’t have the occasional piece of chocolate or indulge in a slice of birthday cake, but you need to make your oral health a priority.

Immediately after eating, rinse your mouth out with water, and give your teeth about 30 minutes. This will allow the saliva to do its job and level off the pH value. Then, you’ll be safe to brush your teeth without doing any additional damage to your teeth.

A regular dental cleaning can go a long way to determine how your diet is affecting your teeth. Call us today to set up your next appointment.