Showbags, rides, competitions and amazing fireworks spectacular, the EKKA is full of excitement and has something for everyone. From racing pigs to fashion parades, this year’s Royal Queensland Show has some amazing entertainment and events in store for the whole family to enjoy. And let’s not forget all the amazing food and drinks that help make the EKKA what it is today. But how does sugar affect teeth?
With so many snacking options, it’s merely impossible to try all those mouth-watering options without loosening your belt a little. Thank goodness for take-home packs and showbags to help us with post EKKA food comas!
It’s such a great place to “treat yourself” and get your annual fix of greasy and sweet foods, but as much as we don’t want to admit, it can take a toll on your oral health. I know I know, it’s such a buzz kill. But don’t worry! We’ve come up with some tips to help keep your teeth cavity free this EKKA season.
Tip #1
Rinse with water after all foods and drinks
This seems pretty simple but rinsing your mouth after consuming food or drinks (especially juice and soft drink) can help in so many ways. Not only will it help remove any debris from the mouth, the saliva in your mouth will naturally reduce acids left on teeth to a normal pH level quicker. You will also decrease the bacteria build up on your teeth. If you don’t have any access to water, chewing sugar free gum will help achieve the same results.
Tip #2
How does snacking on sugar affect teeth – try to avoid snacking
This can be difficult to do with so many tempting food stalls and trips into the Woolworths Fresh Food Pavilion, but this tip is also a great one to try and follow daily. When you eat, your teeth are exposed to acids and bacteria that can have negative effects on the teeth. And because the acid damage is cumulative, decay is more likely when snacking and grazing throughout the day. Consuming food and drink in a single sitting will reduce this risk significantly, helping your saliva neutralise between meals.
Tip #3
How does sugar affect teeth
This is probably the hardest thing to do when you’re surrounded by fairy floss and the famous strawberries and cream ice cream cones. Fermented carbohydrates such as candy, soft drink and bread break down in the mouth, rather than in the digestive tract. It is these carbohydrates that work alongside bacteria that create cavities on the teeth significantly faster than having a diet high in vegetables, calcium and protein. Every bit helps, especially when it comes to choosing your showbags. Why not try and opt out of getting showbags full of candy for some the include games, souvenirs or even clothing? They will probably last you longer too!
