Ice Cream and Your Teeth

Oral care is a year-round responsibility, and the team at Artistic Touch Dentistry reminds you of the sweet summer treats that could do more harm than good for your teeth. On hot Florida summer days, ice cream is one of the most inviting treats. But use caution! Despite its store of calcium and its ability to cool you down, the sugars in ice cream can lead to bacteria growth and tooth decay.

Ice cream typically contains high amount of sugar. Sugar in itself isn’t bad for the teeth, but bacteria living inside the mouth feast on it. And when the bacteria in your mouth feed on these sugars, they release acid. The acid is the enemy, as it can cause decay, loss of enamel, cavities, and gum disease.

If you do choose to indulge in ice cream, be sure to brush and floss afterward to avoid damage to your teeth and gums. If you aren’t able to brush, try chewing sugar-free gum to help release the bacteria and wash away sugar with saliva. We want you to enjoy your sweet treats this summer, but don’t forget to care for you teeth as well.