Sugar is a natural component of many foods and drinks. It is also added to many processed foods. Sugar is a carbohydrate and provides energy for the body. The body needs to have some sugar for energy, but too much sugar can be harmful. Too much sugar can affect your health in many ways, including your teeth. Glenferrie Dental discusses the effects of sugar on your teeth. Keep reading to know more.
Sugar Cause Cavities
Sugar has been named as one of the top causes of cavities. But how does sugar cause cavities?
Sugar is a carbohydrate, and when it is eaten, it is converted into glucose. Glucose is a primary source of energy for the body. However, when too much sugar is eaten, it can damage teeth.
The bacteria in the mouth use glucose to produce acids. These acids can attack the tooth enamel and cause cavities. In addition, the sticky nature of sugar can attract bacteria to the teeth, which can also lead to cavities.
People who eat a lot of sugar are more likely to get cavities. However, even people who brush their teeth regularly and practice good oral hygiene can still get cavities if they overeat sugar.
The best way to prevent cavities is to eat a balanced diet, brush your teeth twice a day, and floss regularly. If you do eat sugar, try to eat it in moderation.
How Much Sugar Can We Eat?
There are many differing opinions on how much sugar is safe to eat, with some people saying that any amount is unhealthy, while others recommend that we eat up to 30 grams of sugar per day. So, what is the truth? Well, it isn’t straightforward.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that we eat no more than 25 grams of sugar per day. In comparison, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends limiting our intake to no more than 36 grams per day. However, it’s worth noting that the AHA also says that people with diabetes should eat no more than 18 grams of sugar per day.
What’s the difference between these two recommendations?
The main difference is that the WHO recommends a limit for the entire population, while the AHA recommends a limit specifically for diabetes. The AHA recognizes that people with diabetes are more likely to experience negative health effects from overeating sugar.
That said, it’s important to note that both WHO and AHA recommend that we avoid overeating sugar, regardless of whether we have diabetes or not.
How much sugar is safe to eat?
Well, it depends on your circumstances. If you have diabetes, you should stick to the AHA’s recommendation of no more than 18 grams of sugar per day, even though you are in Australia. If you don’t have diabetes, then the WHO’s recommendation of 25 grams of sugar per day is an excellent place to start.
However, it’s important to remember that these are just guidelines, and you may need to eat less or more sugar, depending on your circumstances. Ask your dietician if you’re not sure how much sugar is suitable for you.
What Can You Do To Protect Your Oral Health?
There are many things you can do to protect your oral health. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is essential, but there is other oral care you can do to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
- You can eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in fibre and nutrients, which can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- You should also avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks. These can damage your teeth and increase your risk of cavities.
- You can also brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps protect your teeth against decay.
- Please visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can examine your teeth and gums and clean away any plaque or tartar buildup.
If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, be sure to talk to your dentist. However, if you do not have a dentist, you can contact us immediately to book an appointment and get registered. A dentist is always available to attend to you.