14 Jan Healthy Ways to Satisfy a Sweet Tooth
Sweets might taste delicious but they can wreak havoc on your oral health and your wellbeing. When it comes to our oral health, sugar feeds harmful bacteria that contribute to dental caries and periodontal disease. As for our wellbeing, consuming too much sugar can negatively affect everything from our waistlines to our blood glucose levels.
It’s important to consume desserts, including healthier ones, in moderation. If you find yourself wondering about the state of your oral health, call our practice to schedule a checkup with our dentist.
Opt for Fresh Fruit
While fresh fruits do contain sugar and acid, they are a healthier alternative to processed desserts that contain extremely high levels of sugar. Moreover, swapping a slice of cake for a banana or orange will give you the benefit of added nutrition. Fresh fruit is a great source of vitamins and fiber.
Use Cocoa Powder
Unsweetened cocoa powder can deliver the chocolate flavor you crave without insane amounts of sugar. Consider dusting unsweetened cocoa powder on peanut butter or popcorn for a chocolate-flavored treat.
Cut Out Candy and Ice Cream
Candy and ice cream might taste delicious but they are heavily sweetened. In fact, the levels of sugar in items like candy bars and ice cream are so high that nearly all health professionals caution against consuming them at all.
Drink Water with Sweets
If you do consume something rich in sugar, be sure to drink water. Water will help rinse away sugar compounds and dilute the by-products of bacteria feeding on sugar molecules.
You might be tempted to brush your teeth after dessert but you should wait to do so for at least thirty minutes after you finish eating. Our teeth temporarily soften after meals and snacks – especially when we eat sugary items. Brushing our teeth while they are recovering from a sugar attack could permanently damage their protective enamel barrier.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup or cleaning, call us today to reserve time with our dentist. We offer general dentistry services as well as restorations.