More foods than people realize contain sugar, from natural sources like fruit, vegetables and honey to processed foods such as cookies and chips. Processed sugar is more damaging to teeth as it leaves behind a thin film known as plaque on the tooth surface that saliva cannot wash away.

Over time this plaque can disintegrate the tooth enamel causing holes or cavities. Too much sugar can also lead to gum disease and other oral health issues.

1. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, known as cavities, occurs when bacteria in the mouth consume sugar and turn it into acid. The acid slowly dissolves the enamel of the tooth, creating holes or cavities in the teeth.

The good news is that the saliva in your mouth naturally fights tooth decay. However, the more sugar you eat, the more acid attacks your teeth and wears down their enamel.

Sticky foods such as candy, cookies and dried fruit cling to the teeth for long periods of time, giving oral bacteria plenty of sugar to feed on. Frequent snacking and sipping sugary drinks throughout the day gives bacteria a constant supply of fuel to produce acids that attack the teeth, leading to tooth decay and potentially a life-threatening infection (tooth abscesses).

2. Gum Disease

A diet high in sugar can lead to gum disease (or periodontitis). This is because bacteria that cause cavities also feed on excess sugar, which they excrete into the gums as toxins.

These toxins can damage the tissue that holds teeth in place, leading to loose or falling teeth. Gum disease can also cause bleeding gums and red, swollen gums.

To reduce the risks of gum disease, try to limit sweets and other sugary drinks to mealtime. This will help you generate saliva, which can wash away some of the sugar that sticks to teeth. Brush your teeth and floss between them regularly, as well. It’s important to have regular dental cleanings, too, to remove any tartar and plaque buildup that can lead to gingivitis.

3. Bad Breath

Bad breath (halitosis) can be a result of poor dental health habits and a sign of other health problems. It can also be caused by eating certain foods such as onions and garlic, smoking and some medicines and diseases.

Excess sugar provides a ready source of nutrients for the bacteria that cause tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath. By reducing the amount of sugar consumed and practicing good oral hygiene, bad breath can be eliminated along with the health issues that accompany it. It is also important to visit a dentist for regular checkups, so that they can spot any issues and treat them before they become serious.

4. Sensitivity

A diet high in sugar can make teeth extra sensitive. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the enamel is worn down and exposes dentin, which contains microscopic canals and tubes. When hot, cold or acidic foods come in contact with the dentin, pain and sensitivity can occur.

It’s important to limit foods and drinks that contain free sugars – those added to food and drink such as biscuits, chocolate, cakes, flavoured yoghurts, fizzy drinks, jams and honey. However, the sugars naturally found in milk, vegetables and fruit don’t count as free sugars.

Sensitivity is a good thing, but too much sugar can be detrimental to your health and well-being. Pay attention to how you feel after eating certain foods and if you’re constantly feeling tired or exhausted it could be due to excess sugar.

5. Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a precursor to gum disease, and it is caused by a buildup of sugar in the mouth. When bacteria eat the sugar, they produce acids that erode tooth enamel and toxins that irritate and inflame the gum tissue. This leads to swollen and red gums that often bleed when brushing or flossing. Gingivitis can be easily treated with a regular oral care regimen, such as using toothpastes that promote gum health and frequent cleaning and flossing.

While some glucose is necessary for human health, excessive sugar can trigger a spike and subsequent drop in blood sugar levels. These changes can lead to lethargy, mood swings, and poor immune system functioning that contributes to gum infections and irritation. The best way to protect your teeth and gums is to reduce your sugar intake.