New research has shown that snacking a lot during the day can increase the risk of developing tooth decay. However, snacking itself isn’t necessarily the issue; it is what you snack on that can make the difference. In order to find out how you can become snack smart, please read the blog below.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When you do not remove plaque from your teeth every day, it builds up. Plaque bacteria use sugar to make acid that attacks enamel, the hard surface of the tooth. The acid can attack tooth enamel for up to 20 minutes after you consume sugary foods or drinks. Frequent acid attacks can break down the enamel and cavities can develop.
Certain acidic foods or drinks can also cause damage to the enamel on our teeth. Some of our favourite drinks including 100% citrus fruit juices, diet soda and other sugar free drinks are big culprits when it comes to tooth erosion.
If you want to snack in a smarter way, please make sure to take the following advice into consideration.
You should limit the amount of times you eat sugary snack during the day. Also, try to eat your sugary treats after a main meal and read food labels. When doing so, look for hidden sugars. Look at the consistency of food – stick foods stay in your mouth for longer! Above all, eat mindfully and make sure you don’t eat when you are bored or thirsty.
The NHS have put together this fantastic ‘healthier snack for kids’ campaign. Follow the link to read more and gets some great snacking tips: Healthier snacks for kids
We run smile club every school holidays for children age 4-10. Please email us to find out more: harpenden@visagedental.com
