Does Candy Really Cause Cavities?

Does Candy Really Cause Cavities?

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A common narrative that kids are fed growing up, is the concept that eating too much candy will cause their teeth to obtain cavities, or even worst, fall out. While too much of anything isn’t a good thing, it is extremely important that ideas like these are explored for validity, to make sure that children and adults alike are looking at the right things to combat tooth decay.

The Truth about Sugar

In short, while eating a lot of candy can lead to tooth decay, it is not candy itself that causes it. Bacteria being left in areas between and on teeth is the brunt of the cause of cavity production, and though eating candy can cause this, many other foods can inhibit this as well. It’s important to remember that all foods have sugars in them, and therefore can have the same effects of eating candy, depending on how the individual takes care of themselves and teeth after consumption.

After eating, plaque builds up on the teeth, and too much of this, can cause erosion in various areas of the tooth. Making sure to floss, brush the teeth, and use other resources like mouthwash are the key to making sure that this does not occur.

Adequate Dental Care

Contrary to popular belief, caring for teeth in a way that is effective is not hard at all. The most difficult part of the process some may say is simply finding the willpower to ensure one gets up and does the process at the correct times of the day. This can be a struggle for some, because remembering to brush the teeth at night, and do the entire routine can be a hassle, especially when one is already tired, and in bed, ready to go to sleep.

The main components of proper dental care most people are familiar with. These include brushing the teeth at least twice a day, for at least two minutes, and flossing regularly. Additionally, making sure to visit the dentist regularly, for routine checkups and cleanings is important as well. This is because if there are any underlying issues when it comes to dental hygiene, the professional can easily spot and treat them, before they grow into an even bigger issue.

While it has been discussed that eating sweets and sugary foods is not the cause of cavities and plaque in and of itself, on part of dental care does include cutting certain unhealthy foods and beverages out of the diet. The reason for this is even though these foods are not the main cause, they still have the ability to contribute to teeth erosion. Cutting back on them a little bit can decrease the amount of work that one has to put in physically when it comes to caring for the teeth as far as brushing and flossing. This simply means that less bacteria will breed in the mouth in general if less foods are consumed that cause it to, meaning there will be less brushing and flossing that has to be done to rid the bacteria that is present.

Generally speaking, the worst foods that breed bacteria and the ones to stay aware from are typically high sugar foods, snacks, and acidic beverages. This includes soda, soft drinks, energy drinks, and even juices that contain a lot of sugar. Additionally, sticky foods like candy and lollipops can have a high impact as well. Simply eating a bit healthier, and substituting a soda for a bottle of water can make a huge difference.

Overall, while the foods you eat can have an impact of the state and quality of your dental health, it is the way you care for your teeth that ultimately determines it. Someone eating all healthy foods can have a mouth full of cavities, if they are not properly taking care of their teeth. And likewise, one who eats terribly, but takes a lot of time to nurture and take care of their mouth, can be cavity free. Although efforts should continuously be made to eat food that is healthy, as long as one makes sure to brush their teeth regularly, while flossing and using other resources, the ability to have clean, healthy teeth is as open to them, as it is to anyone else.

Call our Sarasota Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.