When you indulge in sweet treats, it may seem harmless, but these sugary delights can pose significant risks to your teeth and gums.
Whether it is candy, soda, or desserts, sugars react with the bacteria in your mouth to produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Over time, this acid erosion can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
Expert Advice from Shinto and Kato General Dentistry
At Shinto and Kato General Dentistry, Dr. Paul Shinto, Dr. Bryce Kato, and Dr. Matthew Hunter Shinto encourage their patients to be mindful of their sugar intake. Regular dental checkups can help catch any early signs of damage, but prevention starts with your daily habits.
Reducing the consumption of sugary foods and sweet treats, especially between meals, is one of the best ways to protect your teeth from decay.
Plaque and Tartar Buildup from Sweet Treats
When sugar is left on your teeth, it can create a sticky plaque that hardens into tartar, a major contributor to gum disease.
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums, which can advance to periodontitis, a more severe form.
The caring team at Shinto and Kato General Dentistry is skilled at spotting these issues before they become serious. A thorough cleaning at their Pasadena dentist’s office can help remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone might miss.
Sweet Treats and Orthodontic Devices
Additionally, if you wear orthodontic devices, such as braces or clear aligners, sweet treats can cause even more harm.
The sugar can easily get trapped around the brackets or under aligners, creating an environment for rapid decay. That’s why regular visits to Dr. Paul Shinto, Dr. Bryce Kato, and Dr. Matthew Hunter Shinto are crucial if you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Tips for Preventing Tooth Decay
To combat the effects of sweet treats, brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove any leftover particles. Drinking water after eating sweets can help wash away sugars and acids. If you’re looking for professional advice on how to maintain a healthy smile, or if you’re overdue for a cleaning, consider scheduling an appointment at Shinto and Kato General Dentistry. Their experienced team can help you protect your teeth and gums from the damage that sugary foods can cause.
Maintain a Bright Smile with Pasadena’s Leading Dentists
Keeping your smile bright and healthy doesn’t mean you have to give up sweet treats entirely, but moderation and good dental care go a long way in preventing cavities and gum disease.
Trust Pasadena's leading dentists to guide you in maintaining optimal oral health and schedule a dental checkup today.
