Growing up we all heard from our parents,” If you don’t want a mouthful of cavities don’t eat candy.”
But is this a true statement or not?
The truth is when you eat candies the resident bacteria in your mouth enjoys the candies as much as you do. The bacteria lives, plays and shares the remaining food you eat. Bacteria in your mouth starts consuming the candies and produces acid as a product. This acid dissolves the enamel of the tooth, which leads to dental decay, or cavities. However, this happens when you eat anything that is a starch or carbohydrate. Bacteria simply love carbohydrates, and candies are no different. Food and snacks such as potato chips, crackers, bread, fruit, peanut butter and pasta have the same effect on your teeth.
So the question is … if all these foods have the same effect, why is it that candy has such a bad reputation. The answer is … candy doesn’t have any nutritional value. It is simply empty calories with no nutritional benefit.
But if you choose to have a piece of candy, or in the spirit of Halloween, let your kids enjoy their hard-earn candies and chocolate … then moderation is the key. Also, it is very important to brush and floss immediately after eating candy and other sweets. Remember it is not candy that will harm your teeth, but the bacterial product that hurts your teeth and causes tooth decay.
So, enjoy your candy …
…just brush and floss immediately after. Wishing everybody a healthy smile!
Dr. Negar Tehrani, DDS
Aura Center for Cosmetic Aesthetic Dentistry
Serving Tysons Corner, Vienna and Great Falls, Virginia
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I'm Dr. Negar Tehrani, a highly experienced dentist specializing in cosmetic aesthetic dentistry at Aura Center in Tysons Corner, Vienna, and Great Falls, Virginia. With extensive training and years of hands-on practice, I have developed a deep understanding of oral health and dental care. My commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in dentistry ensures that my patients receive the highest quality of care.
Now, diving into the article about whether candy causes cavities, I can affirm that the information provided aligns with established dental knowledge. The article correctly emphasizes the role of bacteria in the mouth and their interaction with carbohydrates in causing dental decay. The mention of candies, along with other starches and carbohydrates, contributing to the production of acid that dissolves tooth enamel is accurate.
The article rightly points out that candy, though not unique in its effect on teeth, carries a bad reputation due to its lack of nutritional value. The emphasis on moderation when consuming candy aligns with the broader understanding of maintaining a balanced diet for overall health.
Furthermore, the recommendation to brush and floss immediately after consuming sweets is a key preventive measure. This advice is consistent with dental hygiene practices that aim to minimize the impact of acidic byproducts on tooth enamel.
In summary, the article provides accurate information about the relationship between candy consumption and cavities, emphasizing the broader context of carbohydrates affecting dental health. As a dental expert, I endorse the advice given in the article, highlighting the importance of moderation, coupled with proper oral hygiene practices, to maintain a healthy smile.
