Are Sugar Substitutes Better for Your Teeth Than Real Sugar?

We’ve all grown up hearing dentists warn us about how dangerous sugar can be for your teeth. Too much of it can cause all kinds of health problems as well as cavities. In an effort to combat these issues, artificial sweeteners have flooded the market. But are they better for your teeth than actual sugar? Continue reading as a dentist explains how sugar substitutes affect your oral health.

How Sugar Harms Your Teeth

Like any warm, moist environment, your mouth is teeming with bacteria. Many of these bacteria are beneficial because they help digest your food. However, some of them can adversely affect your oral health.

When you eat or drink something sweet, these bacteria feast on the sugar particles on your teeth. They leave behind an acidic waste product that erodes your tooth enamel. Too much sugar consumption can lead to the formation of cavities.   

Are Sugar Substitutes Any Better?

While sugar can wreak havoc on your teeth, some sugar substitutes may actually provide oral health benefits. For example, some artificial sweeteners contain polyols, a type of sugar alcohol with antibacterial properties. Bacteria cannot break down many polyols the way they break down sugar. Therefore, the bacteria cannot produce the acidic waste that harms tooth enamel.

However, it’s worth mentioning that a study in the British Dental Journal found that if a product that contains polyols also has acidic flavoring, then there is still a sizeable risk of enamel erosion and decay. Additionally, sugar substitutes without polyols, such as maple syrup or honey, can fuel destructive bacteria. Use caution when selecting an alternative to sugar.

Moderation Is Key

Both real sugar and artificial sweeteners come with their own drawbacks, but sugar substitutes are generally better for your oral health. In both cases, though, moderation is key in keeping your risk of tooth decay to a minimum. If you can’t brush your teeth after eating something sweet, rinsing your mouth with water can prevent sugar particles from lingering on your teeth and feeding harmful bacteria.

When in doubt, it never hurts to ask your dentist for tips on eating healthier. They’re always happy to supply guidance on keeping your pearly whites as healthy as can be!

About the Practice

At Stec Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, Dr. Steven Stec, Dr. CJ Stec, and Dr. Jacob Stines offer a variety of modern conveniences and state-of-the-art dental technology. These amenities allow the team to prevent and treat oral health issues as early as possible. If you would like to learn more about how to eat a mouth-healthy diet, visit their website or call them at 308-382-4440.