Dentists commonly caution their patients against consuming sugary drinks. Along with many other detrimental health effects, the ingredient also negatively impacts your smile and increases the rate of decay. The following guide details the type of oral damage it causes, as well as what you can do to prevent it from happening.

How Sugar Impacts Your Smile

Sugar fuels the bacteria living in your mouth. They produce acid when feeding on the ingredient, which wears away your tooth enamel. In time, oral bacteria make their way into the inner recesses of teeth, causing cavities.

As such, sugary drinks and treats are leading causes of tooth decay in kids and adults. If left untreated, the problem may worsen and require tooth extractions or root canals. Degraded enamel also leads to increased tooth sensitivity, making it painful to consume hot or cold foods and beverages, as well as exceptionally sweet items, such as soda.

How You Can Preserve Your Smile

Dentists recommend people limit or stop drinking soda to prevent these ill-effects. In the meantime, there are other steps you can take to minimize sugar’s impact on your smile. When drinking soda, try to do so quickly, as sipping prolongs exposure on your teeth, increasing damage. Rinse after consuming these beverages with a fluoride-infused mouthwash. Brush and floss twice daily, and schedule biannual visits with the dentist for exams and cleaning.

In New Britain, CT, the Gladstein Dental Center provides patients the advice, services, and resources they need to care for their smiles. Dentist Eric Gladstein and his team will discuss how to achieve optimum oral health, which requires a combination of dental care and diet. If you have decay, they also offer restorative procedures. Schedule an appointment today by calling (860) 223-1162. New patients can also visit the website for more information on what to expect and how they can assist.