Our Toluca Lake dental team will you make smart choices for your dental health every single day. To that end, today we are sharing information about how refined carbohydrates, in particular, affect your teeth and gums. Once you have read this article you will be able to sip and snack thoughtfully.
How many of these sugary and carbo-loaded substances do you regularly consume?
- Flavored yogurts
- Cereal
- Bagels
- Pastries
- Fruit Juices
- White rice
- Pastries and sweets
- Condiments
- Beer
- Sauces
This issue is important because the oral bacteria feed on sugars and carbohydrates and then invade your smile through cavities and gum disease. The goal is to make it harder for bacteria to live, not easier. Make your mouth an inhospitable environment for them!
It is very difficult, and for many people unhealthy, to permanently give up carbohydrates. Your body needs some amount of sugar for energy. However, there are a few helpful strategies that will lower your risk:
- Pre-plan your meals, snacks, and drinks—we often consume carbo-loaded foods and drinks when are forced to quickly reach for something
- As much as possible, forgo sugary treats for more nutrient-rich food.
- Minimize bacterial activity by sticking to a short period of time when you eat or drink anything other than water
- Rinse your mouth with water right after you eat or drink
- Use floss to clear away dental debris and minimize plaque between your teeth
- Snack on crunchy, water-rich vegetables
- Do not brush your teeth right after eating; you want to wait 20 to 30 minutes at least before you use anything abrasive on your teeth
You can learn more about improving your oral health, and optimizing your daily routine by scheduling a personal consultation with our Toluca Lake dentists. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you achieve your dental goals!