Taking Care of Your Smile
Your smile is meant to last a lifetime, and there are steps you can take to keep it healthy. It’s essential to brush and floss twice daily, and rinsing with a mouthwash that fights plaque and gum disease will also bolster your oral health. Another important habit to adopt is visiting Dr. Connelly at St John’s Dental Care for regular checkups where we provide preventative care and treatment that can’t be duplicated at home.
An additional factor in the health of your smile is the overall wellbeing of your body. Exercising regularly, getting plenty of rest, and eating a balanced diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals will help to keep your smile strong and shining bright.
It’s also important to avoid foods that may cause tooth decay. It’s widely known that foods containing high amounts of sugar can lead to tooth decay. But some types of sweets are more dangerous than others. Hard candy, sticky candy, and sour candy are particularly damaging to your smile.
The Worst Types of Candy for Your Smile
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that feed on plaque, tartar, and debris in your mouth. Both hard candy and sticky candy tend to remain on your teeth for long periods of time after you finish eating them. Their residue allows the bacteria to develop and penetrate the outer layer of enamel that protects your smile. Another problem with hard candy is that it can damage your teeth when you bite down on it.
In addition to being high in sugar, sour candy is also very acidic. Unfortunately, this acid dissolves your enamel, making it even easier for bacteria to find its way inside your teeth and cause decay.
Bread, Chips, and Crackers
Even though candy is harmful to your teeth, there’s an even greater threat to your smile. Foods that are high in carbohydrates like chips, bread, and crackers also feed the bacteria that causes gum disease. These common foods leave a gooey residue that coats your smile and it can also get stuck between your teeth. The longer it remains on your teeth, the more damage it will do.
Healthier Eating Habits
The more you avoid snacking between meals, the less likely it is that you’ll develop tooth decay. When you eat a large meal, it causes your mouth to moisten. The saliva that’s released will rinse your smile clean and it also contains enzymes that break down the starches that cause cavities. When snacking between meals, it’s best to consume healthier treats such as nuts and crunchy fruit like apples. It also helps to rinse your smile clean with water after eating a snack.
Healthy Smiles in St Johns, MI
Contact our office today and schedule your next checkup with Dr. Connelly to help maintain a healthy and attractive smile. Feel free to ask about how our cosmetic and restorative treatments such as professional whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental implants can help you achieve the smile you’ve been dreaming about.
