Sugar and Oral Health: Understanding the Long-Term Effects
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Sugar is one of the biggest threats to oral health, yet many people underestimate its long-term impact on teeth and gums. While an occasional sweet treat may seem harmless, regular and excessive consumption of sugar can lead to serious dental issues that go far beyond cavities. Understanding how sugar interacts with the mouth can help you make better choices for your health and maintain a strong, confident smile. How Sugar Affects the Mouth When you consume sugary food or drinks, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and produce acid as a by-product. This acid attacks the tooth enamel, which is the protective outer layer of your teeth. Over time, repeated exposure to these acids can weaken enamel and cause cavities. The cycle does not end there. Once enamel is worn down , the inner layers of the tooth become vulnerable, leading to increased sensitivity, pain, and in some cases, infection that requires treatment. Long-Term Effects of Sugar on Oral Health 1. Tooth Decay and ...