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Dec
Does Your Child Have a Sweet Tooth? Here are the Effects of Sugar on Teeth
Your child’s oral health goes beyond just regular brushing and flossing—diet plays a significant role, too. While most of us know that sugar is a primary culprit in causing cavities, do you understand why it’s so harmful to teeth? At South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Mission Viejo, California, Drs. John De Lorme and Sam Wu are dedicated to your child’s oral health and want you to be informed. Here’s what you need to know about how sugar impacts your child’s teeth.
Why do children love sugar?
Can’t separate your child from juices, candy, and other sugary treats? It might feel like a losing battle because their love for sugar could be hardwired in their DNA. Research indicates that children are biologically predisposed to crave sweet flavors. In fact, this trait dates back to ancient times when our ancestors sought calorie-rich foods for survival.
So, if your child has a persistent sweet tooth, it’s not just about willpower—it’s a natural inclination driven by their genetic makeup. However, understanding this can help you find healthier alternatives to curb the harmful effects of sugar.
How does sugar affect your child’s oral health?
When it comes to your child’s oral health, sugar, plaque, and harmful bacteria are profoundly intertwined. Plaque forms on your teeth daily, and the bacteria within it depend on sugars as a source of energy. While sugar itself doesn’t cause oral problems, it encourages plaque formation—the root cause of numerous problems in the mouth.
Here’s how sugar affects your child’s oral health.
- Tooth decay: When sugars and starches are left in the mouth, they become favorite snacks for harmful bacteria. As the bacteria feed on sugars, they secrete acids that dissolve the minerals (demineralize) on the enamel over time. Gradually, tiny holes (caries) form on the tooth and eventually become cavities.
- Gum disease: When plaque forms along the gum line, it inflames the gingival tissues. This gum inflammation manifests as gum tenderness, redness, and swelling. Left untreated, gum disease advances into periodontitis, which causes gum recession and tooth loss.
- Bad breath: When the bacteria feed on the sugars, they emit foul-smelling gases as byproducts. This causes chronic bad breath (halitosis), especially when coupled with poor oral hygiene.
Sugary treats may taste great, but they can cause significant problems for your child’s oral health. While cutting out sugar entirely from their diet is not realistic, reducing their intake can dramatically improve dental health. Limiting sugar protects your child’s teeth from cavities and has broader benefits for their systemic health.
How can I eliminate the harmful effects of sugar?
Sugars found in candy, ice cream, chocolates, potato chips, and soda can create havoc for your child’s oral health. However, the tips below can help minimize the damage to your child’s teeth.
- Brushing teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing teeth to remove plaque between teeth
- Reduce sugary snacks and introduce your child to healthier snacks like yogurt, fruits, and nuts
- Limit snacking between meals
- Visit a dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings
Ready to protect your child’s smile?
Do you want to learn more about your child’s oral health? Call (949) 581 5800 to talk to South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. We are here to ensure your child maintains their healthiest smile.
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Dr. John De Lorme
Dr. John De Lorme is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). He is a healthcare leader in his community, speaking at parent/child classes throughout South Orange County for the last 30 years. He attended Saint Mary’s College, University of the Pacific – Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital for his residency.
Dr. Samuel Wu
Dr. Samuel Wu, also an ABPD Diplomate, attended the University of California in Berkeley and Los Angeles and spent his residency at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital. He has a passion for medical missions to other countries.
Both Drs. De Lorme and Wu are affiliated with MobiSurg, an Accredited Surgery Center, and are members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Society, California Dental Association, Orange County Dental Society, and American Academy of Pediatrics.
Dr. Chris Carter
Dr. Chris Carter completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and dental school and residency at Oregon Health and Science University. He practiced general dentistry for five years before specializing in orthodontics. His experience at the University of California – Irvine’s Plastic Surgery Department allows him to craft smiles that perfectly complement each patient’s unique facial features.
Dr. Carter is a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, American Association of Orthodontists, Orange County Dental Society, California Dental Association, and American Dental Association.