Easter and Oral Health

There are at least 150g of sugar in the average 250g Easter egg. But why is it so bad for teeth and gums?

Sugar is used by bacteria in dental plaque as a form of energy. Plaque can build up and produce acid which dissolves the minerals that make teeth enamel hard, causing cavities.

Here are some tips tips for enjoying Easter eggs and avoiding tooth decay:

Enjoy your Easter eggs at mealtimes, rather than between meals. A mouth that is already producing saliva will do a better job of fighting off the acid attack. This is because saliva helps to  neutralise the acids,  wash away food debris  and repair the early effects of tooth decay by remineralising tooth enamel.

Eat a small piece of cheese after a meal or sugary Easter treat. Cheese helps to stimulate saliva, neutralise acid and keep bacteria from sticking to the surface of the teeth.

Drink a glass of tap water after eating your Easter eggs or lollies. This helps to wash away the sugars that create acids and cause decay.

Brush teeth with a soft toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, at least twice each day.

 Have a Safe and Happy Easter. 

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