One of the most common treatments in dentistry is the repair or restoration of teeth that have experienced decay. This can range from placing a small filling to replace a minor cavity, to placing a crown on a severely damaged tooth, to removing and replacing the entire tooth or multiple teeth. With proper dental hygiene and by avoiding foods that can increase your risk of decay, you can help prevent this kind of damage to your teeth.
Causes of Decay
The mouth is naturally inhabited by a wide range of bacteria. Under normal conditions, these bacteria are not harmful. However, when food particles or sugary drinks adhere to the teeth or are caught between them, bacteria feed on these particles and begin to multiply. They also create highly acidic waste products that collect on the tooth surfaces and eat into the enamel, creating dental decay and cavities.
Sticky foods are particularly dangerous with regard to creating decay because they cling to teeth and are difficult to remove. Brushing and flossing after you eat sticky foods will help reduce your chances of developing cavities, but consuming these kinds of foods increases your risk of developing a cavity.
Avoiding Sticky Foods
Your dentist can help you determine what types of foods you should avoid to keep your teeth healthy. Some examples of foods to avoid include:
• Taffy
• Caramels
• Gummy candies
• Dried fruits
Other types of candy can also increase the sugar levels in your mouth, providing food for bacteria to consume. Higher levels of sugar promote a higher level of bacteria, and so a higher level of waste products that become plaque and tartar, eventually eating through the tooth enamel.
Although advances in dentistry have made it possible to restore or replace teeth suffering from decay, it is best to prevent your teeth from becoming damaged in the first place. Be sure to practice diligent oral hygiene, visit your dentist regularly, and avoid sugary, sticky foods to keep your teeth strong and healthy.
To learn more about dental health and the foods to avoid, call the Toronto office of Dr. Nicholas Kemp today to schedule an informative consultation.