Sugar substitutes do not present the same risk to teeth that sugar does. The natural sugars we consume are not corrosive to our tooth enamel. Tooth decay is caused by the bacteria in dental plaque metabolising these natural sugars and releasing an acid that attacks our tooth enamel. It has been found that many sugar substitutes and low-calorie sweeteners do not have this same reaction, and in fact some artificial sweeteners called polyols actually have antibacterial properties and not harmful for teeth. Polyols are not broken down by oral bacteria, and as such do not contribute to tooth decay. These sugar alcohols include malitol, sorbitol, xylitol and isomalt, and by chewing gum sweetened with these substitutes you can actively help prevent decay by increasing your natural saliva flow through chewing. That’s how artificial sweeteners aren’t a threat to your teeth and overall oral health. At Hyde Park Dental Care we believe that prevention is far better than a cure. By employing a proper oral hygiene routine from a young age, you can achieve optimal oral health for life. At our Sydney City dental practice we recommend you follow these oral hygiene tips to ensure that you keep your natural teeth for life: Brush your teeth at least twice a day. This should be done for at least three minutes at a time, ensuring that you brush under and along your gum line. Floss your teeth every single day! This removes bacteria and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth that cannot be accessed by brushing alone. Maintain a healthy diet. This should include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables with minimal amounts of acid creating foods such as sugary treats. Visit our practice every six months for a professional clean and check-up. This allows us to diagnose and treat any oral issues in their early stages, to save you time, money and extensive dental work down the track. By following our preventative dental tips, you can achieve optimal oral health for life! To find out more about preventative dentistry, or to book an appointment at our Sydney City dental practice, please contact us. Don’t forget to share this via Twitter, Google+, Pinterest and LinkedIn.