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Whether you’re relaxing at home or spending the day with friends, snacking on your favorite foods can be quite enjoyable. It’s common to want to feed your rumbling stomach instead of waiting for the next full meal. Although munching occasionally can keep your energy up, it’s possible you could be putting your teeth and gums at risk. See what your dentist in Lehigh Valley has to say about snacking before you reach for the next chocolatey delight.
#1: It Affects Your Mouth’s Acidity
Your mouth’s acidity level can greatly influence your teeth and gum health. The bacteria in your mouth breaks foods down every time you eat, producing acids as a byproduct. Too much of these acids can cause the enamel of your teeth to wear down at an intensified pace. The longer this goes on, the more likely you are to develop cavities. Snacking frequently can increase the acidity in your mouth to a potentially dangerous level.
#2: Increased Risk of Cavities & Decay
Constantly eating snacks, especially starchy foods like pretzels, chips, and crackers, can end up leaving sticky particles between your teeth. Unless you normally brush and floss after every snack, these bits of food may remain around your teeth and gums for too long. Allowing these pieces to stay for lengthy periods can increase your risk of cavities and tooth decay.
#3: Your Diet May Have to Change
Snacking can be good for your teeth if you choose the right stuff. But, if you tend to munch on chips and pretzels instead of nuts, cheese, and vegetables, you’re actually damaging your teeth when you can be strengthening them.
#4: Too Much Sugar Intake
High levels of sugar are one of the biggest causes of poor dental health. An increased intake of sugary snacks can lead to cavities and tooth decay. Those who eat more frequently should consider limiting the sugar in their diet, paying close attention to the food labels on their favorite snacks.
Snacking isn’t always bad, but you should choose your foods wisely. Eating chips or candy occasionally isn’t the end of the world either, but it might be a good idea to not have them as part of your daily diet. Give your dentist a call if you want a better idea of how to go about snacking in the future.
About the Author
Dr. S. John Salivonchik earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine at Temple Dental School. As a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, he’s always had a passion for helping patients maintain great dental health. Using state-of-the-art technology for a vast array of treatments, he provides preventive care for a great smile! If you want to know more about the effects of snacking on your teeth or schedule a checkup, visit his website or call him at (610) 502-1545.
