The Impact of Sugar on Your Smile

As a practicing orthodontist in Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Mohamed Aljanabi wants you to have a bright smile and a healthy mouth, and with Valentine’s Day approaching, and all the candy we’ll consume, this is a good time to talk about the effect sugar has on your teeth and your smile.

Stated simply, excessive amounts of sugar are not good for your teeth. We all have bacteria in our mouth, and those bacteria get their energy from the sugar we consume. That process, in turn, produces an acid that contributes to decay, the formation of cavities and the erosion of our teeth, and our smile.

The most obvious sources of sugar are favorites like candy and sodas, but some things we think of as “healthy” options can also be loaded with sugar. For example, a glass of apple juice may contain about as much sugar as a glass of soda.

Daily Guidelines

Your recommended daily sugar consumption includes the following:

·         Adult male – No more than 9 tsps. (37.5g)

·         Adult female – No more than 6 tsps. (25g)

·         7-18 years old – No more than 6 tsps. (25g)

·         4-6 years old – No more than 5 tsps. (20g)

 Recommendations

To keep within these guidelines, here are some of Dr. Aljanabi’s recommendations.

·         Substitute water flavored with lemon, lime or orange slices for soda.

·         Avoid the worst “sugar culprits” such as sticky, hard and sour candies as these are some of the most damaging to your teeth.

·         Read food labels carefully, including the labels of so-call “healthy” foods and drinks to see how much sugar they contain.

Contact Our Orthodontist in Brooklyn, NY

Finally, for the very best in orthodontic care in Brooklyn, and the smile you’ve always wanted, call the office of Dr. Mohamed Aljanabi today to schedule your initial consultation.