There is a direct correlation between eating sugary foods and dental cavities. Sugar in the goodies we eat is the energy source for acid-producing bacteria that erodes the enamel of our teeth. And the longer the sugar lingers in our mouth and on the surface our teeth, the more damage the acid causes. Bacteria loves sugar, so the more we indulge, the more acid it makes, which is really bad news for Santa.

There is, though, some good news for those of us who love sweets. Dr. William Harris in Clarksville, Tennessee recommends that we go easy on the sweets, enjoy when we do indulge, and then go brush our pearly whites. The sooner the sugary delights are removed from the surfaces of our teeth, the less chance there is to cause decay.

This brings up a couple of interesting points in this discussion. When we sit and sip sugary drinks throughout the day, we’re feeding the acid-producing bacteria that we want to starve. That sticky substance stays on our teeth all day long and wreaks havoc. Sucking on hard candies throughout the day promotes deterioration, too. As does eating gummy candies and caramels. Soft, sticky candies stay stuck on our teeth – and the result is the acid that eats at our enamel.

Proper dental hygiene involves regular appointments with your dentist at Patriot Family Dental. Call 931-645-2469 to schedule your visit today. And be sure to incorporate these healthy oral habits, as well.
• Brushing teeth regularly and often
• Using floss
• Getting regular dental check-ups and cleanings

Good oral hygiene rids traces of sugar from our teeth and prevents the harm that can turn into cavities. When we brush after each meal and avoid snacking between meals, we give our teeth a good chance to stay strong and healthy. Including sweets as dessert at mealtime instead of as a snack helps to minimize the acid-growth. Just remember to brush afterward.

Children’s tooth enamel doesn’t completely harden for several years after their teeth have come in. Because they’re softer than adult teeth, cavities form easier. Proper dental care is very important for our children.

So the big picture here is to satisfy our sweet cravings with a few bites of goodies, and then we brush. And instead of leaving a plate of gooey cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve, put out some carrots and celery sticks and apple wedges. Santa may not be excited about this change, but his reindeer will be happy with these goodies.

The post All of Those Cookies Are Bad For Santa’s Teeth appeared first on Patriot Family Dental .