As the weather begins to warm up many of our patients get back to their active outdoor lifestyles and family BBQs. And unfortunately, for many of our patients, that means sugary sports drinks and soda beverages. Sugary drinks are at every warm weather event and some drinks are more sugar-laden then you would expect. Chapel Hill, NC dentists Dr. James Furgurson and Dr. Nathan White encourage patients to moderate their sugary beverage intake this spring and summer.
Sugar & Your Oral Health
Sugary beverages not only pile on the calories, they can affect your oral health. Harmful oral bacteria loves sugar. As the bacteria feeds on the sugar it produces acid that can cause cavities and enamel erosion. Patients with who consume more sugar are more prone to developing complex oral health concerns and have higher cavity rates.
Avoiding sugary beverages altogether would be best not only for your oral health but for the health of your entire body. Even many fruit juices are packed with sugar. If you do want to indulge in a sugar drink be sure you drink them in one sitting. Sipping the drink over long periods of time gives the sugar more time to settle into the cracks and crevices between your teeth. Try to drink a glass of water immediately after finishing your soda, juice or sports drink to wash away the sugar.
For alternatives to juice, soda and sports drinks try unsweetened ice tea or plain sparkling water. They pack a little taste and excitement without all the extra calories and cavities. Milk and water are excellent go to drinks that help clean and strengthen your teeth. If you avoid dairy, unsweetened milk alternatives with added calcium can be a great substitute for building a better smile.
Schedule An Appointment
Preventive dental care is the best way to keep your gums and teeth healthy. Brushing, flossing and biannual dental visits can help keep your smile bright for years to come. Whether you are looking for a new dentist in the Chapel Hill area, or it is time for you to schedule your next preventive care appointment, call our office today. Our experienced and caring staff welcomes new and existing patients.