DENTAL CARE

Q: Could I Be Addicted to A: Sugar? We have just finished Thanksgiving, and the holiday season is in full swing with gifts, parties, and treats galore. One common theme at the end of the year is grappling with constant food bombardment. Many of us struggle with this dilemma, especially those who fight this battle the rest of the year when the playing field is not one-sided.

Sugar addiction refers to the excessive and compulsive consumption of sugary foods and drinks, leading to a dependency on sugar. While the term “addiction” is often associated with substances like drugs or alcohol, some researchers argue that certain patterns of behavior, including overconsumption of sugar, can activate reward pathways in the brain similar to addictive substances. A study a few years back stated that less than ten percent of our calories should come from added sugars.

Unfortunately, very few of us can meet these guidelines. Sugars are not inherently bad, as they are found in fruits and many healthful foods. The problem occurs when manufacturers add sugar to a product. These are usually found in junk foods, candies, etc. If we try to cut back on junk food, such as limiting ourselves to one less “junk food a day,” we will make progress. Adding fruits will help feed our sugar addiction. Sugar consumption reduction is a process that takes months to get a grip on. Not only will this help our general health, but it will also help our dental health. Remember, cavities are caused by bacteria feeding on sugar in our diets. Less sugar translates into less cavities.

Let’s talk about why we love sugar. The taste is prime, but the mechanism is more intricate than simply that. Our bodies operate with a reward for our brains. Sugar can stimulate the brain’s reward system by increasing the release of dopamine, a chemical in the body associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, repeated exposure to high sugar levels may lead to tolerance, requiring more sugar to achieve the same pleasurable effect.

If we try to cut back, we can enter the realm of constant cravings leading to withdrawal feelings and emotions. We find this in patients who, after consuming large amounts of sugar daily, try to cut back too quickly and may experience cravings and withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include irritability, mood swings, headaches, and fatigue.

We know that sugar causes dental diseases, including cavities and gum disease. The connection is based on feeding bacteria what they need and want. Sugar is a great food source for bacteria as they come together to form dental plaque. Plaque is a colony of many bacteria which produce acid and toxins to attack our mouths. If we can prevent or reduce the amount of plaque on our teeth, we can reduce the cavities in our mouths. In short, prevent plaque, and you will have a healthier mouth.

One great suggestion I have found to work for many is never depriving yourself of your treats. Go ahead and enjoy, but make sure that you are in control. Always put the goodies on a small plate; that will be your limit. You immediately up the portion size when you grab the cake, cookies, or candy in your hand or on a large plate. Lastly, because we all develop dental plaque, book an appointment for a professional cleaning. Prevention and elimination of plaque are great ways to ensure your dental health. I look forward to meeting you, and I can be reached at 440.951.7856 to discuss nutrition and other strategies to keep your teeth for a lifetime.

Jeffrey Gross, DDS, FAGD, is an Ohio-licensed general dentist and is on the staff of Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine.

The Healthy Smile 34586 Lakeshore Boulevard (¼ mile west of Route 91 on Lakeshore Blvd) Eastlake, Ohio 44095

440-951-7856 Severance Medical Arts, Suite 603

5 Severance Center Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

216-371-2333 www.jeffreygrossdds.com