We all know that more the sugar we consume, greater is the risk of tooth decay and gum inflammation. However, sugar isn’t an “evil” in isolation; it’s a catalyst. The real danger lies in the frequency of sugar consumption and their residue retention on tooth structure.
· Frequency over quantity: It’s not just about how much sugar you eat, but how often. The Stephan Curve demonstrates that every sugar exposure triggers an “acid attack.” Constant snacking or sipping keeps your oral pH in the danger zone, preventing saliva from remineralizing and repairing your enamel.
· Stickiness factor: High retentive foods like sticky candies or chocolate bars, remain on the tooth surface for a longer period of time, encouraging plaque buildup and prolonged acid exposure of enamel which is far more damaging.
Conclusion: Sugar is not a solitary villain, rather a catalyst for decay. While reducing total intake is beneficial, managing how often and what form of sugar we consume are key determinants in managing our oral health.
Don’t just count grams of sugar—count your exposures
What are your views on it ? Are there any sugar substitutes that you opt for ?
MBH/PS
