Often, people will wonder if sugar is really addictive. Dentists and medical professionals will tell you that people aren't sugar-addicted in most cases but craving sugars or having a sweet tooth. The only time you can be addicted to sugar is when you are eating an alarming amount of it uncontrollably. And it happens to some people. In most cases, it is easy to crave very palatable foods containing sugar and fats. Anyone with a sweet tooth knows how it is difficult to stop reaching out for another candy bar or cupcake. Craving sugar is quite real, and it affects many people, some more than others. But wouldn't it be better to be addicted to lettuce and cucumber? But these aren't as palatable as candy.
How Bad is Sugar to Our Teeth
Sugar is detrimental to not only our body but also our teeth. When reading about sugar addiction, pay attention to what effects sugar has on the teeth. Tooth decay is a consequence of craving sugar and being addicted to sugar. The more sugary foods you eat, the high the risk of having tooth decay. You can brush, floss, and rinse as many times as you wish, which of course, is not advisable; however, that won't protect you from cavities and tooth decay arising from high sugar intake.
How Sugar Affects our Teeth
Oral bacteria feed off of sugar in order to survive and thrive. Those bacteria in the mouth wreak havoc on the teeth. Eating sugary foods excessively and frequently allows the bacteria to develop, hence producing acidic byproducts. The acids directly dissolve your tooth enamel, the layer that protects your teeth. Damaged and eroded enamel creates other problems like tooth sensitivity, decay, and potential loss of a tooth, needless to mention the development of gum disease. Sugar attracts bacteria and reduces the pH in the mouth, making the oral environment more acidic.
If you are worried that you could be struggling with sugar addiction or craving sugary foods, book an appointment with our dentist. Our dental team will assist you and advise you on how you control your sugar craving or addiction and how to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Often, people will wonder if sugar is really addictive. Dentists and medical professionals will tell you that people aren't sugar-addicted in most cases but craving sugars or having a sweet tooth. The only time you can be addicted to sugar is when you are eating an alarming amount of it uncontrollably. And it happens to some people. In most cases, it is easy to crave very palatable foods containing sugar and fats. Anyone with a sweet tooth knows how it is difficult to stop reaching out for another candy bar or cupcake. Craving sugar is quite real, and it affects many people, some more than others. But wouldn't it be better to be addicted to lettuce and cucumber? But these aren't as palatable as candy.