Snacking and Dental Health
Sugar and plaque are the main causes of dental decay. Plaque is a clear and sticky film that forms on your teeth every day. It contains germs (or bacteria ) that sticks to your teeth. When sugar in food and drinks react with plaque, it forms an acid that eats away at the tooth’s hard outer layer (enamel). When a hole is made in the enamel, a cavity is created.
Some factors to consider when snacking
- Choose snacks that are nutritious and unsweetened. Healthy food is good for your general health and your dental health
- Read the ingredients list when choosing snacks: Honey, molasses, glucose, and fructose are all types of sugar.
- Eat sweets with meals, not as a snack. The increased flow of saliva during a meal helps wash away and dilute sugars.
- Reduce the length of time that sweet food stays in contact with your teeth. Avoid sipping sugared beverages for a long period of time, sucking on a candy or chewing sugared gum.
- Brush your teeth after eating sweets. Sticky food stays in contact with teeth longer.
- Rinse your mouth with water or chew sugar free gum when brushing is not possible.
Some Healthy Snacking Ideas
- Nuts and seeds
- Hummus
- Vegetables
- Vegetable juice
- Meat
- Beans
- Chickpeas