Today’s article is all about the ways that refined carbohydrates affect the dental health. Our Novato dentists are going to be talking about the risks associated with refined carbs, and how you can minimize potential damage. We hope that this information empowers you to take control of your oral health through your diet!
Before we get started, let’s quickly review why this is such an important topic. As you may already know, cavities and periodontal disease are caused by harmful oral bacteria infiltrating your teeth and gums. And it turns out that these bacteria love to use sugars and refined carbs for energy. So, when you are bringing a lot of sugars into your mouth, you are creating an ideal environment for bacteria!
Here are some commonly consumed foods and drinks that may take a toll on your smile:
- White bread
- Candy
- Ice cream
- Cereal
- Flavored yogurts
- Pizza
- Bagels
- White rice
- Pastries and sweets
- Condiments
- Fruit juices
- Sauces
Minimizing the cumulative effect of these goodies is possible by:
- Brushing and flossing as recommended by your dentist—for most of us that means once in the morning and once at night
- Rinsing your mouth throughout the day, especially after eating
- Drinking a lot of water so that your body can produce an adequate amount of saliva
- Consuming sugars and carbs in specific, time-limited sittings, rather than continuously
- Completing professional cleanings every six months, so our team can clear away plaque that has built up
Our goal at Marin Modern Dentistry is to empower our patients to make healthy decisions for their smiles. We are here to answer your questions, and to help you build an oral health plan that works for you.