Back to all posts

Avoiding those hidden sugars for the health of your teeth

Dr Bill Kalis — Tuesday October 22, 2024

G’day, friends! Dr. Bill here from Padstow Dental, and let’s dive into a topic that’s as sweet as it is important for your oral health – sugar!

Now, we all know about cutting back on the sugary treats, especially after the holidays, but did you know that sugar lurks in many seemingly healthy foods? We call them the ‘hidden sugars.

So, what’s the scoop for your teeth? When sugar makes its way into your mouth, it teams up with the bacteria in plaque, throwing a sugary party that produces acid. This acid can be a real troublemaker, dissolving tooth enamel and paving the way for tooth decay. But here’s the kicker – oral bacteria aren’t fussy eaters. Whether it’s natural, refined, liquid, or grains, they’re all fair game. That’s why we need to be mindful, especially when indulging in foods with hidden sugars.

Now, don’t get me wrong – fruits, veggies, dairy, and grains are fantastic for your overall health. But we need to give our teeth some extra love while enjoying these goodies. The key? Regular preventative dental check-ups and consistent tooth brushing, no matter what’s on the menu – be it natural or added sugars.

Let’s shed some light on common culprits hiding those sneaky sugars:

  • Processed cereals (watch out for the popped, flaked, or fried ones!)
  • Flavoured yoghurt with added fruits
  • Condiments like tomato and BBQ sauces, salad dressings, and relishes
  • Pre-packaged foods such as baked beans and packet soups
  • Muesli, fruit, and ‘snack’ bars
  • Fruit juice
  • Flavoured milk
  • Sports or energy drinks
  • Alcoholic drinks, especially when mixed with an acidic mixer like soft drink or fruit juice

Now, for the good stuff – tooth-friendly alternatives to keep your smile shining:

  • Unprocessed cereals – think plain rolled whole oats or homemade granola
  • Carrot and celery sticks – not just crunchy, but also hydrating for your teeth
  • Leafy greens like kale and spinach – high in calcium and B vitamins
  • Apples – great for hydration, fibre, and saliva production
  • Milk, cheese, and dairy foods – calcium and protein strengthen teeth
  • Plain yoghurt – add some fresh fruits for a tasty and healthy treat
  • Black and green teas – packed with antioxidants to kick out harmful bacteria
  • Lean proteins – meat, fish, poultry, and tofu for a phosphorus and protein boost
  • Nuts – almonds, in particular, are low in sugar and high in calcium and protein

Here are some tooth-happy tips for healthier snacking:

  • Read those food labels – keep an eye out for sneaky sugars under names like glucose, sucrose, lactose, or syrups
  • Sip sweet liquids through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth
  • Cut down on snacking between meals to reduce acid attacks
  • Embrace your saliva – it’s a superhero in remineralizing and strengthening teeth
  • Hydrate with water and chew sugar-free gum – they boost saliva flow and mineral replacement
  • Practice mindful eating – savour your meals and save those ‘treat’ foods for special occasions

Now, sugar is all around us, and let’s face it – it tastes good! When it comes to natural sugars, there’s no need to steer clear. They come bundled with fibres, vitamins, minerals, and other goodies that are not just tooth-friendly but also beneficial for your entire body.

If it’s been a while since you last had a chat with your dentist, now’s the time to book that regular dental check-up. We can discuss the effects of sugars on your oral health and catch any issues early on. 

Until then, keep smiling, and remember, your oral health is our priority here at Padstow Dental! Cheers!

References: Exposing the hidden sugar in your diet – Cancer Council Victoria (cancervic.org.au) 2. Finding the Hidden Sugar in the Foods You Eat | Johns Hopkins Medicine 3. https://www.teeth.org.au/alcohol 4.  Limit the Effects of Sugar on Teeth | Colgate® Oral Care 5. Types of Sugar: 56 Common Ones You Should Know (healthline.com)

Back to all posts
pin icon

Location

14 Howard Road, Padstow NSW
1 minute walk from Padstow Station
Easy parking

clock icon

Practice Hours

Mon, Tues, Wed 9.00am – 5.30pm

Thu, Fri 8.30am – 5.00pm