Have a tough time taming your sweet tooth? It makes sense. After all, sugar is highly addictive and can cause compulsive habits over time. Not only is too much of this sweet ingredient bad for your general health, but it also contributes to higher rates of tooth decay and cavities. Luckily, there are ways to overcome your sugar cravings. Read on to get some ideas from your dentist in San Antonio.
Lean Toward Sugar-Free Foods
Sweeteners, like Splenda, have made several sugar-free products taste just like the real thing. Therefore, you can indulge in chewing gum, coffee creamer, and even hard candy without the risks of real sugar! In fact, chewing sugar-free gum is one of the best ways to satisfy your sugar cravings without damaging your oral health. Since it uses a sweetener, it doesn’t promote bacteria the same way sugar does.
Seek Out Healthy Alternatives
Fresh fruits contain lots of natural sugars, which are much healthier than the added sugars found in cookies, cake, and candy. Plus, they’re jam-packed with vitamins and minerals that your body needs. So, next time you get the urge to eat a slice of cake, reach for some fruit instead! Apples, pears, and strawberries are just a few tasty foods that can benefit your oral health while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Occasional Indulgence Is Okay
Like most things, sugar is okay to consume in moderation. For some people, it may even do more harm than good to cut sweets out completely. There’s a chance they’ll relapse and binge when going cold turkey, and overconsumption is what causes the most damage to teeth. So, don’t worry – enjoying a cookie or cupcake now and then is unlikely to do serious harm.
Exercise Self-Discipline
Even though a sweet treat once in a blue moon is okay, the key is having a mindset that ensures you can keep it that way. Indulging in a sugary item is usually a fleeting, momentary pleasure. Before you take a bite out of that donut, take a second to think about what you’re truly getting. It may be very tasty, but is it worth the potential damage to your smile? When it comes to sugar consumption, make sure you think about its long-term effects. It’ll help you realize how foregoing sugar is worth it in the end!
Stay Hydrated
In some cases, an intense sugar craving could indicate dehydration. Try drinking a large glass of water to help eliminate the sudden temptation. If possible, opt for fluoridated tap water! Fluoride helps strengthen the tooth enamel, which protects your teeth from decay and cavities.
Proper dental care at home and in the office of your dentist in San Antonio is just part of the equation to maintaining good oral health. Making wise choices for a nutritious diet will help you enjoy a great smile for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Zachary Brice earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Dental School. He is diligent about taking continuing education courses each year to stay current in an ever-evolving dental field. As a married father of four, Dr. Brice undoubtedly has to help his children safely navigate their daily sugar cravings, so he understands the discipline that is required. He’s ready to assist you in maintaining excellent oral health via a dental cleaning and exam which you can schedule on his website or by calling (210) 903-5565.