Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, you’re not alone. Many individuals who cannot deny the temptation of biting into cookies, cakes, pies, cobblers, and candy often find that while these things may taste delicious, they also pose a substantial risk of tooth decay. What can you do? You want the taste of these sweet treats, but you also want to prevent cavities. To help you navigate this dilemma, here are three things you can do to avoid a visit to your emergency dentist.
Start Brushing More Frequently
Normally, dentists recommend that you brush your teeth in the mornings when you wake up and right before you go to bed. However, if you cannot give up your addiction to sugar, you’ll find it necessary to brush more often. This means using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to rid your teeth of bad oral bacteria that love to feed on sugar and create harmful acids that break down tooth enamel.
While you may not be at home to perform this task, you’ll need to carry a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste in your purse so that you don’t neglect your teeth throughout the day. There is also a good chance you’ll need to replace your toothbrush more frequently, as plaque can build up quickly over time.
Stock Up on Sugarless Gum
This one might seem like an odd recommendation, but what you don’t realize is the benefit of saliva production. By chewing on sugar-free gum, you not only get the taste of something sweet without the added sugar, but you also stimulate your salivary glands. This encourages greater production that helps to flush out bad bacteria and sugar that will try to adhere to your tooth enamel.
Swap Out Sugar For Healthier Alternatives
Telling someone to swap out sugar for fruit may sound impossible, but it will not only be helpful to your waistline but also your smile. Fruits have natural sugars that are less harmful to your teeth. Instead of worrying so much about cavities, you can focus more on the health benefits that come with choosing apples, berries, or various types of melons.
If it feels like a losing battle, especially around the holidays, do not lose hope. Talking to your dentist in Chaska about ways to improve your oral health without giving up your sweet treats is one of the best ways to take care of your smile. If you want additional tips to keep your teeth cavity-free, don’t hesitate to make an appointment.
About the Authors
Dr. Thomas Meschke and Dr. Aaron Swingdorf are dentists in Chaska who believe in the power of preventive care. Helping patients take better care of their teeth and gums extends beyond the confines of our dental office. Offering tips and recommendations to use while caring for smiles at home, our team can help patients take charge of their oral health by navigating how to handle sweet temptations while also preventing cavities. If you would like to learn more, contact us at (952) 448-4151.
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