Why Does Eating Candy Hurt My Teeth?

Do your teeth feel sensitive whenever you eat candy and other sugary foods? In this post, we take a look at the relationship between sugar and teeth, and a possible explanation for why your teeth hurt when you eat candy.

How Sugar Affects Your Teeth

Sugar is delicious but it isn’t so great for your teeth. When the bacteria that live in your mouth eat your dietary sugar, they release toxic acids that are harmful to your teeth and gums. This acid strips the minerals from your enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, and irritates your gums. Weakened enamel cause your teeth to become more sensitive. Additionally, irritated gums will pull back from the teeth, exposing the sensitive roots. The result can be discomfort when the tooth is exposed to hot, cold, and sugar.

Many foods contain natural sugar, but they also contain healthful nutrients that promote good oral health and help your body function properly. In contrast, candy doesn’t contain any vitamins and minerals. Although it can give you short-term energy, most candy is considered “empty calories” that only increases your risk of tooth decay. Candy that is sticky, chewy, or hard is the worst for teeth. These stay in your mouth for a long time, which means your teeth are in a constant state of demineralization.

Decay & Cavities

Even if you have a consistent brushing and flossing routine, if you have a diet high in sugar or acidic foods and beverages, you run the risk of developing tooth decay. Unless a decay or weakened area of enamel is fortified through remineralization, it will become permanently damaged. This manifests as a hole, or cavity, in your enamel. If decay spreads through your tooth, you can even lose your natural tooth entirely.

Although cavities are best diagnosed at the dentist with a trained eye and special dental technology, warning signs of a severe cavity can include a toothache and sensitivity, especially when eating foods high in sugar.

Cavity Prevention & Treatment in Monroe, WA

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity whenever you eat candy, contact us today! Our team at Donald Kim, DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can help reduce your pain with our comprehensive dental services. Depending on your smile needs, we may recommend treatment such as restorative dentistry, improved oral hygiene, or a special mouthrinse.

We also provide preventive services to reduce your risk of cavities, such as professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. Sealants fill the grooves of molars to prevent cavities from forming in those hard-to-reach areas.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment! We look forward to hearing from you.

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