Treat yourself with these tricks to avoid cavities

Tis the season of trick or treat.

Let’s be honest – mostly treat.

And to be fair, a day of treats won’t have too much of an impact on your dental health, but if you’re wondering around the neighbourhood collecting candy, storing it away for a rainy day, then we probably need to have this conversation…

Beware sticky lollies

When it comes to dental health, it’s not necessarily the amount of sugar we eat and drink on 31 October, it’s more about how long that sugar stays in our mouth.

These types of foods stay in your mouth and between your teeth after eating, combing with your mouth’s natural bacteria and forming acids that wear away at your tooth enamel and causes cavities.

Wait 30 minutes after eating

Last year the Australian Dental Association (ADA) reviewed a survey carried out in 12 countries, by YouGov on behalf of the FDI World Dental Federation, which exposed a significant gap between what Australians believed to be good oral health practices, versus what actually are good oral health practices.

Just over half (51%) of people surveyed mistakenly thought it was important to brush your teeth straight after every main meal. The FDI recommends waiting at least 30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth to avoid weakening tooth enamel.

Drink lots of tap water

You shouldn’t brush your teeth for half hour after eating but rinsing with or drinking tap water after sugary snacks is a good idea.

Drink tap water frequently, in place of bottled water where possible, for the added benefit of the fluoride.

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