Dietary Advice

Whenever you consume sugary food or drinks, your teeth undergo a two-hour acid attack as the bacteria in your mouth breaks down these sugars and generates harmful acids. Hence, it is crucial to limit sugary intake to mealtimes only, minimizing the frequency of potential harm to your mouth. Excessive sugar consumption throughout the day can result in tooth enamel deterioration, leading to cavities that may necessitate fillings or extractions.

Acidic Foods

Foods and beverages with high acidity levels pose equal harm. The acid present can corrode or dissolve the protective enamel, revealing the dentine layer beneath. Consequently, your teeth may become sensitive and unattractive. Adopting a diet abundant in vitamins, minerals, fresh fruits, and vegetables aids in preventing gum disease which can result in tooth loss and unpleasant breath.

Sugar

Decay can be caused by any type of sugar, which is available in various forms. Common sugars include sucrose, fructose, and glucose, identified by their 'ose' ending. These different types of sugars have the potential to harm your teeth equally. Numerous processed foods contain sugar, and its quantity increases as it moves up the list of ingredients. When shopping for food, it is advisable to read the ingredient labels carefully.

If you do eat fruit as a snack, try to eat something alkaline such as cheese afterwards. Savoury snacks are better, such as: cheese, raw vegetables or nuts.

When to brush your teeth

To maintain oral hygiene, it is crucial to brush your teeth before bed and once more during the day using fluoride toothpaste. The consumption of sugary and acidic foods weakens the enamel naturally, and immediate brushing afterward can lead to the removal of small enamel particles. To prevent this, it is recommended to wait for at least an hour after eating before brushing your teeth.