Everyone has heard that too much candy can harm your dental health. But how much candy is too much, and is candy really that bad for your teeth health?
What Effects Can Candy Have on Teeth?
Candy contains high levels of sugar, which in turn can feed bacteria in your mouth. When bacteria break down the sugars, they produce acids that eat away at the enamel of your teeth. This leads to an increased risk of tooth decay, cavities, and other dental problems.
Candy can also cause different issues, primarily hard or chewy textures. Chewy candy can pose a risk to dental fillings. In addition, chewy candy can strain your jaw and hurt your teeth if you have TMJ or other jaw disorders. On the other hand, hard candies can chip your teeth or cause undue strain. Sour candies also contain high acid levels, which can damage your teeth and irritate your gums and potentially lead to canker sores.
Are There Candies That Are Good for Teeth?
As with all things, moderation is key when consuming sugary foods. Candies that are sugar-free or low-sugar are better for your teeth. There are some alternative options such as chewing gum with xylitol and sugar free lollipops. Avoid overly chewy or sticky candy, and be careful not to bite into hard candies. Overall, brush your teeth after consuming sugary foods, as this can stop bacteria from breaking down the sugars and help preserve your teeth.
What If My Child Chips a Tooth Eating Candy?
If your child chips a tooth while eating candy, getting immediate dental care is crucial to your child’s dental health. Your child’s dentist can assess the damage done by the candy and decide the right course of action to treat the chipped tooth. In many cases, a filling can help restore the tooth and prevent further damage. In more extreme cases, a dental crown may be needed to fix a rougher tooth surface or a complete tooth extraction in the case of an entirely shattered tooth.
What If They Get a Cavity From Eating Candy?
Thankfully, cavities are easy to deal with when caught early. First, your child’s dentist will analyze the depth of the cavities and set an appointment to work on them. After removing damaged, decaying enamel, the dentist will clean the area and apply the filling. Most fillings are made of a composite resin that matches a tooth color and is nearly unnoticeable in the mouth. After setting the resin, the dentist will advise your child to avoid chewy foods, and they may have lingering numbness due to localized anesthetic and numbing agents.
If you are worried about cavities, schedule an appointment with our office today by calling (203) 489-2112. Here at Around The World Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping you care for your child’s dental health. We look forward to hearing from you! If you’re looking for a new dentist in Stamford/Greenwich, CT area and neighboring towns, or have any dental questions or concerns, we’re happy to help answer your questions and provide superior dental care for you and your family.