Plaque, Not Just Sugar, Causes Stubborn Cavities

Plaque, Not Just Sugar, Causes Stubborn Cavities

3rd November 2015

It is a common belief most people have known since childhood: eating too much sweets will rot your teeth. Whilst it is true that a diet filled with lollies and sweet treats increases your risks for cavities, however, sugar itself is not the main cause behind tooth decay.

A Closer Look at Dental Cavities

tooth decayDental cavities form due to bacteria residing in the mouth digesting the carbohydrates from the food you eat. Food debris does include refined sugars found in cakes, cookies and other sweets, but it is also present in healthier food choices, such as vegetables, fruits and grains.

When your mouth digests these carbohydrates, it produces acid that combines with your saliva. As a result, plaque develops and eventually damages your teeth.

Plaque—the Leading Cause of Tooth Decay

Plaque, not sugar, heralds the damaging effects of tooth decay in your mouth. During each meal, you subject your mouth to plaque formation, especially if you do not brush frequently. Plaque can damage the enamel (also known as the protective film of your teeth) and affect the dentin, which are the pulp containing blood vessels and nerves.

Cavities from plaque affect the dentin and the bone supporting your teeth. This leads to stinging sensations, severe toothaches and gum diseases in the future.

Be Mindful of Food

Whilst sugar is not the main cause of your tooth woes, it is still a cavity-causing carbohydrate. After all, the type of food you eat plays an important role in your oral health.

Food such as breath mints and dry cereal can get stuck in the crevices of your teeth, which cause decay. Rather than indulge in hard candy and raisins, settle for an apple or yogurt. Both food items easily wash away with saliva and are unlikely to cause stubborn plaque.

Apart from the food you eat, how you consume food also affects your oral health. For example, it is better to sip fizzy drinks rather than consume them straight from the can. This is because the drink’s acid remains in your mouth for at least 30 minutes, which leads to plaque development.

Love your teeth more by taking additional precautions with what you eat. Here at Denchic Dental Spa, we can help keep your teeth plaque-free and looking its best anytime, anywhere. Get in touch with us now.