at Riverside Dental Group want you to have a very happy Valentine’s evening, but remind you to be mindful of what, how much, and when you consume various V-Day treats.

Cavities in a Box

If you coated your teeth in sugar, that would not directly cause cavities. However, when you feed the bacteria in your mouth with sucrose (anything sugary), they produce harmful acid that soaks your teeth and threatens the integrity of your protective tooth enamel. Softening enamel from acid, coupled with the plaque that’s produced when food particles, acid, and bacteria mix, is the simple recipe for tooth decay. Enjoy sweet treats on holidays, and now and again throughout the year, but don’t forget your oral hygiene routine and to keep up with your dental checkups and cleanings twice a year.

Sugar at Bedtime = Restless Sleep

If chocolate is your favorite Valentine’s Day treat, be mindful of how stimulating it can be if you eat too much, or too close to bed time. Chocolate contains small amounts of caffeine on top of the obvious sugar content. Your body reacts to sucrose by releasing cortisol, raising blood sugar levels. To counteract this spike, insulin will be released-. Trying to fall asleep or stay asleep when you’re in a possible hypoglycemic state won’t be easy because of the sleep arousals it will cause. Get your chocolate fix well before your head hits the pillow so you can achieve your much deserved beauty rest after a lovely Valentine’s Day.

Dental Checkups with Riverside Dentists

You can arrange an appointment with our Riverside dentists by calling our  to patients of all ages in Riverside and surrounding areas.