Halloween and the Day of the Dead (October 31-2nd November) is just around the corner. This is a festive period where many, especially children, eat a lot of sugar candy. MC Dental would like to bust some spooky myths about sugar consumption and set the record straight.

Decay is caused by the bacteria in the mouth digesting sugar (glucose and sucrose) and producing acid as a by-product which then melts away tooth structure.

You can prevent tooth decay in three ways;

1. Reducing sugar: by removing sugar the bacteria has no food source and can’t produce acid.
2. Reduce bacteria: even with lots of sugar, no decay will occur.
3. Strong teeth: consuming fluoride strengthens teeth and reduces the risk of decay.

Five ways to prevent tooth decay during Halloween:

1. Eat sugar free lollies; sugar free lollies have sugar substitutes that cannot be broken down by the decay causing bacteria in our mouth and will not produce the acid. Double-D confectionery is a brand that produces sugar free lollies. You can find their range and others at many supermarkets. Also, Joys Delights is an online candy store that delivers Australian wide.
2. Slow down the frequency of sweet exposure: by reducing the frequency of the sweet consumption your saliva will have an opportunity to neutralise the acid and therefore prevent decay. It is better to consume all the lollies in one sitting than consume the lollies consistently throughout the day.
3. Drink lots of water: Melbourne tap water contains fluoride, helping to strengthen teeth and prevent decay.
4. Good oral hygiene: correct brushing and flossing habits twice a day (morning and evening) will reduce bacterial load. Colgate recommends brushing your teeth for at least two minutes.
5. Regular six monthly visits to the dentist: by visiting the dentist twice a year for a clean this can help catch early signs of decay.

If you require any type of dental assistance ask to speak to one of MC Dental’s dentists located at Westfield Doncaster, Melbourne Central Shopping Centre and Docklands

 

The information contained on this website and websites linked to this website (Information) does not constitute or comprise comprehensive medical or dental advice. You should seek dental advice directly from your dentist before acting or relying on the Information.

First published: 06 November 2014

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