Wow…. Easter time already… this year is really flying by!
With the temptation of all those yummy Easter eggs and some of us “going back on the chocolate after lent”, it is important that we don’t neglect our dental health.
As dental professionals, we would of course hope that you enjoy those Easter treats, but remember to not over indulge and ensure that you continue to look after your teeth and gums.
Tooth decay will occur when we consume food and drink containing sugar. Bacteria in the plaque on our teeth mix with the sugar and change it into acid. This acid then attacks the surface of the teeth, causing it to weaken or ‘demineralise’. This can cause considerable irreversible damage to the teeth and lead to cavities or holes in those pearly whites.
How to enjoy those Easter eggs and avoid dental decay:
1. If you feel like munching on some easter egg, try and enjoy it at mealtimes rather than between meals. Saliva in your mouth helps neutralise the acid produced by bacteria during mealtimes so it is best to consume that chocolate when having one of your main meals.
Saliva helps to neutralise the acids, wash away food debris & repair the early effects of tooth decay by remineralising tooth enamel.
2. Eat a small piece of sugar free chewing gum after a meal or sugary treat. Gum helps to stimulate saliva, neutralise acid and keep bacteria from sticking to the surface of the teeth.
3. Drink a glass of tap water after eating those Easter eggs. This helps to wash away the sugars that create acids and cause decay. Fluoride found in tap water will also help protect your teeth.
4. Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, at least twice each day.
Happy Easter from everyone here at Shelbourne Dental Clinic 🙂
