How Sugar Can Impact Your Oral Health

Sugar and starches left in the mouth can be a contributing factor for developing tooth decay and cavities. Eating a diet high in sugar and not brushing or flossing frequently can lead to oral health problems. Here, learn how sugar can impact your oral health and how we can prevent problems caused by diet to your teeth and gums in Calgary, AB. Our dental team helps patients prevent future problems like decay and cavities with thorough, professional dental care.

Sugar and Oral Health

Patients who eat foods that are high in sugar are prone to oral health problems. This is because bacteria feed on sugars left in the mouth. Bacteria then create digestive acids which can irritate the gums and break down the tooth enamel. Over time, bacteria can also create plaque, a sticky film that covers the teeth and gums. The plaque can harden to form tartar and calculus. It is much more difficult to remove plaque and tartar from the mouth, even if patients brush and floss daily.

As bacteria build in the mouth, patients can begin to experience early signs of tooth decay and gum disease. Patients with tooth decay can experience tooth pain or sensitivity and even cavities. Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is a precursor to gum disease and can emerge as gum inflammation and irritation. As gum disease progresses, many patients experience gum inflammation, bleeding gums, and gum recession. Over time, decay and gum disease can lead to permanent tooth loss.

Preventing Oral Health Problems

At-home oral hygiene and professional dental care help patients remove harmful bacteria from the mouth. Brushing and flossing after eating foods that contain sugar can prevent bacteria buildup and problems like gum disease and tooth decay. Flossing before brushing can also provide a better clean so the active ingredients in toothpaste can reach areas between teeth. Patients should brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Additionally, brushing the tongue can minimize bacteria in the mouth and prevent bad breath. Remembering these oral health tips can minimize harmful decay-causing bacteria.

Professional dental cleanings are also an important aspect of routine care. Our dental hygienists use special dental tools that can remove bacteria in hard-to-reach areas, especially between teeth and in the back of the mouth. Using stainless steel dental tools, our hygienists can scale the teeth and gums, or remove bacterial buildup.

Have you noticed any signs of gum disease or tooth decay? Contact Dr. Shruti Chahal for routine dental care today at or request a dental appointment online. Please let Dr. Chahal know if you have any questions about oral hygiene or regular dental visits and she will be happy to assist you.