Facts About Sugar Tooth Decay

If you find yourself eating lots of candy and drinking lots of soda and not brushing your teeth very often – you might find yourself with a cavity or two. Here are some facts about sugar tooth decay that may encourage you to rethink your diet and start brushing more often!

Sugar, when combined with the saliva and bacteria in a person’s mouth, can lead to tooth decay. When you eat or drink something with sugar (especially sucrose) in it, glycoproteins stick to your teeth. A glycoprotein is a carbohydrate and protein molecule. These glycoproeins ultimately form plaque and are then joined by your mouth’s bacteria! This spells tooth decay.

Still not convinced that too many lollipops may hurt your teeth? Well, here are some more facts about sugar tooth decay then! The bacteria derives energy from the glycoproteins and due to this metabolic process, lactic acid results. This acid ultimately dissolves your tooth enamel and causes painful toothaches, common symptoms of cavities.

So, if these facts about sugar decay have now caught your attention – what can you do about it? First of all, brush your teeth frequently and don’t forget to floss as well. This will prevent the buildup of plaque. Secondly, a calcium-rich diet will help your body fight enamel decay.

And finally, avoid sugar, sucrose (or “table sugar”) especially.

Take these steps and you will have a healthy set of teeth that will likely last you a long time! Ignore these facts about sugar tooth decay and you might find yourself investing in a pair of dentures down the road.