A popular frozen treat that many people love is ice cream. It’s a cold dessert that can cool you down or give you a pick-me-up after a long day. While your favorite flavor might not seem like it can do any harm, it can cause trouble to your smile if you aren’t careful. To make sure you can protect your oral health, here is what you need to know and tips to enjoy it without any worry.
What Can Ice Cream Do to My Smile?
One of the main ways that ice cream can affect your teeth is if they are particularly sensitive. The sudden discomfort can be tough to deal with, but it’s often a sign that your enamel has been weakened. When this happens, the dentin underneath can become exposed. This part of a tooth has channels that go down to the nerve, and hot or cold foods can trigger them and cause a sharp pain.
This treat also has plenty of sugar in it. Although it may be tasty, the bacteria in your mouth also enjoy this aspect. These particles feed plaque that then produce an acid that wears down your enamel. Over time, this can also turn into sensitivity and cavities. So, it’s important you do your best to clean out your smile to ensure you don’t develop any problems.
How Can I Enjoy My Ice Cream Safely?
Although ice cream can lead to discomfort in some cases, its sweetness might be something that’s hard to avoid. The good news is that you don’t have to quit it cold turkey. You can still get a bowl or cone occasionally, but keep it in moderation. Overindulging can lead to trouble, so try to limit it just a bit.
After you eat your scoop or two, you should brush your teeth to remove any plaque and lingering particles. That said, you should wait at least 30 minutes, as sugary and acidic things soften your enamel, so scrubbing right away can lead to scratches. When you eat ice cream, consider just licking it as well! This can reduce how often it comes into contact with your smile.
In the end, you can still enjoy this frozen treat, but follow the tips above! That way, you do your best to avoid oral health issues and keep your teeth in great shape.
About the Author
Dr. Roel Valadez Jr. earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He is proud to help the Alice community get problem-free grins and gums with preventive care. By coming in for regular checkups, Dr. Valadez can spot any red flags and give you the treatment you need as soon as possible. If you want to make sure your ice cream habits aren’t getting in the way of a healthy smile, schedule an appointment or call his office at (361) 664-3057.