This One Habit Can Make You a Cavity Magnet.

Habitual snackers, brace yourself. It’s true. Your snack attack could in fact be contributing to your cavities. If you like to graze, snack, or mini-meal your way through the day you need to hear this…

Every time we eat, the bacteria in our mouth consumes the sugars in those foods and releases acids. Acids cause deterioration of the protective enamel on our teeth. So, these high acidic levels make us more prone to cavities. Saliva works to offset the acids and get our mouth back in balance. However, if you are a natural born snacker, you are constantly creating an acidic environment that is a welcome mat for cavities. Your frequent snacking doesn’t provide enough time to allow the acid levels in our mouths to return to normal.

Why is it always the carbs?! Not all snacks are created equal, with carbs and high sugar, high starch foods being the most detrimental. Yes, those chips, dried fruits, crackers… all the usual suspects. Better snack options are veggies, nuts and cheeses and yogurt.

Is there any good news here? Yes, it’s not all doom and snacking gloom. Try doing these things after you eat and on a regular basis:

• Drink Water. Water is a natural cleanser and helps raise the ph of your mouth so it’s not so acidic. Bonus! This also will help off-set teeth stains. A sip of water after a sip of coffee or red wine will help keep stains at bay.
• Floss & Brush Every Day. Flossing removes all the particles in between your teeth that are cavity-causing. Brushing twice daily, especially before bed is key so you don’t have food hanging out in your mouth all night, a common cavity culprit.
• Try Chewing Xylitol Gum. If you chew it for about 5 minutes after snacking, xylitol gum will help regulate the acidity in your mouth. Chewing xylitol or sugar- free gum also stimulates saliva, which will bring your mouth back in balance.
• Get Regular Cleanings. Twice a year cleaning will remove plaque and things that brushing and flossing just can’t accomplish alone. 

Snackers, breathe a sigh of relief! Being cavity-prone isn’t just due to one thing like snacking. Your overall diet, smoking, oral hygiene, and medications all affect your oral health.

Visit us at bayviewdental.com for more information and book online or call to schedule an appointment today.