$1.50: The Dental Connection!

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger.  You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda...but that's not all!  Vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they can also dispense cavities!

Our entire staff at Thomas Family Dentistry want you to keep in mind that when you chow down on that chocolate bar, the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar.  The sugar quickly turns into acid; that's right, ACID!!!  The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth's natural enamel (the layer that protects your tooth from decay).  When this enamel is dissolved away by the acid on your tooth, you can get a cavity!  Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge, remind yourself: "can't brush? Hold the sugar!"

When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that "sweet tooth", but won't cause acid build up that can result in cavities:

• Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
• Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
• Bread
• Pretzels (low salt)
• Milk (low or non-fat)
• Cheese (low or non-fat)
• Nuts and Seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
• Sliced Meat

If you have any more questions about cavities or want to learn more about which foods are better for your oral health, give our office a call at 918-455-0123.

Have a great Day!
God Bless,
DRT