You've always heard from your dentist that an excess of sugar in your diet can create bad teeth and gums, from sugary sodas to caramel popcorn. However, you may not be completely sure as to how sugar actually hurts your smile. Here are three ways sugar can affect your teeth and gums and eventually lead to cavities and gingivitis. 

How Does Sugar Affect My Smile? 

1. Creates Bad Bacteria

Sugars and carbohydrates create bad bacteria in your mouth that can cause gingivitis and gum disease. These bacteria feed on sugar and will produce acid that also affects your enamel, which is the thin, translucent outer layer of teeth that protects and insulates your teeth from chemicals and differing temperatures. 

2. Adds Plaque 

Acidic foods and sugars destroy your enamel as well as add plaque, the sticky film that covers your teeth. Plaque can stay on your teeth and form tartar, which can damage your tooth and cause your gums to recede. Your dentist may scrape plaque off during a dental cleaning, but if not treated, it can build up and worsen. 

Milk, sweets, and carbohydrates like bread, pasta, and fruit all contain high amounts of sugar in them, which can add to the plaque. Make sure that you are regularly brushing your teeth and use mouthwash between meals to ensure plaque doesn't form quickly. 

3. Causes Cavities 

As enamel dissolves and plaque builds, the major part of your tooth called the dentin becomes susceptible to decay, which results in a cavity. If the cavity is deep and large enough, it can reach your roots and inner pulp, which may result in a necessary root canal. Even if the cavity is small enough to be filled, you'll want to brush well after drinking sugar to not have the cavity progress any further. 

If you are in need of a dentist in the La Crosse, WI area, choose Main Street Dental. For over 30 years, Main Street Dental has provided preventative and restorative dentistry, from oral cancer screenings to implants and dentures. Call (608) 784-4063 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information.