From the trick-or-treating to the fast-approaching holidays, sweets will be readily available at school, work and home. All that candy can lead to dental concerns if not properly addressed in the beginning. At Campos Family Dental, we see the results of eating an abundance of candy – the bacteria in our plaque turns the sugars found in candy into acid. These acidic by-products, if left on the tooth, break down the enamel and can start the decay process.
Dark chocolate is probably the healthiest option for candy. It contains less sugar and is easily washed off the teeth with saliva. Dark chocolate with nuts is one step better, as the nuts have a scouring effect on the teeth and help to remove residual chocolate from the teeth along with the washing effect of saliva.
Sugar-free candy is a good option, but it can be deceptive. Although it lacks sucrose, sugar-free candy often contains other sugars that have fewer carbohydrates, and these alternative sugars can lend to decay. Candies with sugar substitutes like saccharin won't lead to decay, but the chemicals in them create a new list of concerns.
Hard candy is a more problematic type of candy, especially when it is tart or sour. Hard candy is less soluble, so it is in the mouth for a longer period of time. That longer time equals prolonged sugar exposure of the teeth. The larger the candy, the longer it takes to dissolve. Many people also chew hard candy, which can potentially fracture the tooth, permanently damaging the structural integrity of the tooth.
The worst candy to indulge in would be sticky tart candy. Sticky candy adheres to the tooth and is more difficult for saliva to wash away. In addition to prolonged exposure, the tartness of the candy comes from citric acid (its on the FDA label), which is damaging to tooth structure and adds to the acidic condition created by the bacteria in plaque that are breaking down sugars and producing other acids.
After eating sweets, it is a good practice to at least try to rinse your mouth out with water and if possible brush and floss with an ADA approved toothpaste. This will remove residual sugars and acids from the teeth and any plaque that has accumulated before they can do harm. Brushing with a toothpaste that contains fluoride will re-mineralize the tooth structure that was damaged, reversing any harm that was done. Overall, moderation of candy during the holidays and any time of year, along with good brushing and flossing are the key to less problems.
To learn more about proper dental health during the holidays, visit Campos Family Dental at https://www.camposfamilydental.com/ or call (217) 407-4142.
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