Snacking is an activity we all do and what we choose to snack on is important. Snacks that are full ofsugar such as candy or cake may taste good, but are not good for our teeth. In addition to the sugarthesetypes of snacks contain large amounts of fat. Sugary snacks if eaten regularly can cause toothdecay. At our practice, we provide our patients with guidelines for healthy eating, and always promotehealthy choices to keep teeth free of harmful bacteria.
How Can Sugary Snacks Impact My Teeth?
Our mouths contain bacteria,and this bacteria forms a sticky material called plaque. The plaque stickson or in-between our teeth and this can cause decay. When sugary snacks are eaten the bacteria in themouth gravitates towards the sugar, and turns the sugarinto acids. This acid can damage the hardenamel that covers our teeth,and cause cavities to begin to develop. Staying away from snacksor foodsfilled with sugar can help keep the bacteria in your mouth from producing the acid that causes decay.
How Should I Choose A Healthy Snack?
When you have that urge to snack take a minute to ask yourself if the snack you chose contains sugar. Ifit does, you may want to choose another snack that would be healthier for yourteeth. Staying awayfrom gooey sweets or snacks that are very chewy is a good rule of thumb. These types of snacks canstick to the surface of your teeth and take longer to remove,exposing your teeth to sugar longer. If youdo choose to eat sweets, it maybe best to save that type of snack for after a main meal instead ofhaving that snack between meals.
We work to teach our pediatric and adult patients the benefits of healthy eating. Taking care of our oralhealth not only includes brushing or flossing,but it includes making healthy eating choices. Staying awayfrom snacks full of sugar can help prevent cavities, and keep your teeth looking and feeling great.Brushing your teeth after eating a sweet with a fluoride toothpaste can remove any harmful bacteriathat may cause cavities if left on our teeth.
What Types of Snacks Are a Good Choice?
There are many goodtastingand healthy shacks on the market today that are less harmful to our teethand body. Stickingto snacks that are lower in sugarcan help protect our teeth from decay or otherdiseases. Choosing foods like fruits or vegetables,andcrackers or bread are good choices. It may behelpful to make a healthy food list that you pick from when snacking or eating. This can help you makegood choices and stay away from those harmful sugary foods.
Examples of Smart Food Choices That Are Less Likely to Cause Tooth Decay
Fresh Vegetables of Fruits
- Oranges
- Bananas
- Apples
- Grapefruit
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
Grains
- Unsweetened cereals
- Popcorn
- Bread
- Bagels
- Pasta
- Crackers
Milk and Dairy Products
- Low or non-fat milk
- Low or non-fat cheese
- Low or non-fat yogurt
Meat, Nuts, Seeds
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Nuts
Looking For a Dentist?
Many foods or snacks are harmful to our teeth and body. At our practice, we careabout the overallhealth of each patient, and always promotes healthy snacking and eating. Checking the label and sugarcontent can help you make the right decision for healthy snacking. Choosing a variety of foods from thebasic food groups can help you eat a balanced diet, and keep your teeth looking and feeling healthy.Brushing and flossing daily as well as attending your regular dental exams in our office can help keepyour oral health in check. Our team works diligently to not only care for your teeth, but care for youroverall health.
If you are looking for a dentist, our team is happy to help. To get more information or to schedule yourdental exam, contact us and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!
