Let’s face it—for some of us, three square meals a day might not always seem like enough, especially if we’re busy or out and about all day long! This is where snacking comes into play; sometimes, that piece of fruit or bag of chips in the late afternoon is an absolute life-saver, giving us the energy we need to finish the day strong. That said, did you know that snacking can actually be detrimental to your oral health? Continue reading below to learn more about how the habit can impact your teeth and gums, along with some dentist-approved tips for ensuring that no matter what you’re munching on, you’re putting your smile first!
How Does Snacking Influence Dental Health?
Although snacking is a great way to keep away your hunger pangs between meals, it has the potential to harm your dental health. Each time you eat or drink, regardless of what you’re consuming, bacteria in your mouth break everything down into acid byproducts. This increase in acidity within your mouth can cause your enamel to wear away, leaving you more vulnerable to cavities. As snacking occurs more and more frequently, it’s reasonable to assume that the chances of tooth decay increase in unison!
How Can I Snack Without Risking My Oral Health?
Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to snacking is that there are both healthy and unhealthy snacks floating around out there—knowing which are better for your teeth and gums will go a long way toward preserving your oral wellness! The best snacks for a healthy mouth are low in starches and sugars. Things like raw vegetables and fruit, plain yogurt, cheese, raw nuts, etc. are all sensible, healthy options that are unlikely to cause serious dental issues.
It’s not just about what you’re eating though—timing is also crucial. Every time you snack on starchy or sugary foods, your teeth are bombarded with acid for up to half an hour, per the American Dental Association. That said, be sure you’re rinsing or brushing soon after eating, and enjoy your snack in one sitting rather than munching periodically throughout the afternoon.
A recent survey revealed that 30% of Americans snack 3 or more times a day, and over 90% snack daily. Whether you fall into this category or not, you should be mindful of the potential effects of snacking on oral health and rethink your dietary habits accordingly!
About the Practice
Under the talented leadership of Dr. Evan Yu and Dr. Harry Golnazarian, our team here at Winthrop Street Dentistry works tirelessly to provide patients and families in Worcester with high-quality dental care! We’re thrilled to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, as well as emergency dental care. If you have any questions about the article or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule your next appointment, feel free to visit our website or call our office for further information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 756-0990.
