Conquer your sugar cravings for better oral health
A healthy diet is just as important for your teeth and gums as it is for the rest of your body. Sugar-rich foods and drinks increase your risk of tooth decay (cavities), obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. That’s why dental hygienists, essential primary health care professionals and strong supporters of Canada’s Food Guide, stress the
importance of cutting back on sugar to protect both oral and overall health.
Not sure where to start? Here are six tips to conquer your
sugar cravings:
- Keep a full pitcher of water in your refrigerator
and drink water with every meal.
periodontal disease, an infection of the gums and bone that
surround and support the teeth. Initially, gums may be sore
or bleed when brushed. Over time
- Flavour your water with fresh fruit or herbs.
- Eat a variety of crunchy vegetables and fruits daily.
- Buy cereals and drinks that are low in sugar or sugar-free.
- Use unsweetened applesauce instead of sugar when baking.
- Choose chewing gum and mints sweetened with xylitol,
a natural sugar substitute that also neutralizes acids in
your mouth to prevent tooth decay.
Don’t forget to combine these sugar-reduction efforts with
twice-daily toothbrushing (two minutes each time with fluoride
toothpaste), daily cleaning between your teeth, and rinsing with
an antibacterial mouthwash.
By reducing the amount of sugar you consume daily and
developing good oral hygiene habits, you can keep cavities at
bay and enjoy better overall health.
For more information, visit dentalhygienecanada.ca/sugar