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It’s no surprise that sugar plays a role in your dental health. If you have been following through with the recommended biannual dental checkups and cleanings, then you’ve probably been hearing this for as long as you can remember. Among the top things that dentists and hygienists educate their patients on is the fact that sucrose is a huge part of the development of cavities. When sugar is consumed, it feeds specific germs, allowing them to produce enamel-eroding acid. Some of the biggest offenders of sugar include: soda, ice cream, cakes, cookies, candy and anything which makes your sweet tooth a happy camper. The Riverside dentists at Riverside Dental Group will offer you some tips on replacing sugar while still placating your sweet tooth.

Chewing Gum with Xylitol

Let’s hear it for a sugar substitute which also fights tooth decay! Xylitol is naturally occurring in the fibers of vegetables and fruits. This naturally sweet, non-fermentable compound is extractable from foods such as corn, mushrooms, oats, and berries. Xylitol is not metabolized by your body as sugar (unlike refined carbohydrates, which are virtually the same as sugar in terms of your metabolism. For prevention of tooth decay, xylitol re-mineralizes tooth enamel. This makes your teeth stronger and more capable of fighting the harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Stevia

Stevia (also known as sugar leaf or sweet leaf) has become something of a household name in recent years, as Americans become more health conscious. Stevia is a natural sugar substitute which adds a strong sweetness without much of an obvious after taste. This is great for substitutions in baking, cooking, or as a sweetener for your  morning coffee. Derived from a plant in the sunflower family, stevia has helped reduce hypertension in research studies.

Visit your Riverside Dentists

The Riverside dentists can offer comprehensive dental care to children, teens, and adults. We will provide the whole family with x-rays, cleanings, and exams. Whether you are interested in preventive, cosmetic, or restorative dentistry services, we have you covered. We can also meet your orthodontic needs. Call our 92504 dentist office at (951) 689-5031 for all of your dental care questions.