Love Teeth Day Special: Sweet Confusion: Why do some people have better teeth after eating more sugar?

On this special day, let us pay attention to our oral health!

Today is China's Love Teeth Day, an important day to remind us to take good care of our teeth. But did you know that there are "Love Teeth Days" all over the world?

1. Love Teeth Day: A global oral health movement

China's Love Teeth Day was established in 1989 and is held on September 20th every year. The choice of this date is meaningful: 9 represents that a person has 32 teeth, and 20 represents that a person must keep 20 healthy teeth. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has designated March 20th of each year as "World Oral Health Day."

Interestingly, the "National Brushing Teeth Day" in the United States is on November 1, the day after Halloween. Imagine that children are reminded to brush their teeth the day after collecting and enjoying a bunch of candy on Halloween. This contrast is really funny!

2. Sweet confusion: Why do some people have better teeth after eating more sugar?

This is a real phenomenon. Speaking of candy, we have to talk about a confusing phenomenon: Why do some people eat a lot of candy but have better teeth than those who don't eat candy? This question is like a sweet puzzle, let's solve it together!

1. Genes: Your DNA also protects your teeth

Imagine your genes are like a unique recipe book. Some people's recipes contain particularly powerful anti-cavity formulas. That's why some people seem to be born with perfect teeth.

Studies have shown that certain gene variants may affect a person's risk of developing dental caries. For example, variants in the genes AMELX, ENAM, and MMP20, which are associated with enamel development, may affect the strength and acid resistance of teeth. However, it should be noted that genes are only one of the influencing factors, and the environment and lifestyle habits are equally important.

2. Enamel: Your Teeth’s Natural Armor

Tooth enamel is like superhero armor for your teeth. Some people have enamel that is so highly mineralized that it appears translucent, making them seem like they have been given a protective shield - indestructible.

The mineralization of tooth enamel is also affected by many factors, including genetics, diet and fluoride intake. Good mineralization can enhance the tooth's resistance to acid, thereby reducing the risk of tooth decay.

3. Fluoride: The Secret Weapon of Teeth

Speaking of fluoride, it is like a magic potion for teeth. The right amount of fluoride can strengthen tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to acid erosion.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends adding fluoride to drinking water to prevent tooth decay. Studies have shown that in areas where water fluoridation is implemented, the incidence of tooth decay in children is significantly reduced. However, excessive intake of fluoride may also lead to dental fluorosis, so fluoride needs to be used scientifically and rationally. Especially for children, the more fluoride is applied, the better. It is also particularly important to apply fluoride the right number of times for their oral environment.

4. Brushing and rinsing: daily tasks to defeat bacteria

Imagine that our mouth is a sophisticated battlefield. Every time you eat something, especially sweets, it's like sending supplies to the army of microorganisms. Brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth are the cleaning troops you send out to drive out these "bad enemies".

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each time and using a fluoride toothpaste. It is also important to floss daily to clean between your teeth, as brushing may not reach these areas.

5. Saliva: Your natural protective fluid

Don't underestimate the role of saliva! Saliva is like a natural cleanser and buffer for the mouth. Some people have a large amount of saliva with good saliva composition, which can more effectively neutralize acidic substances and wash away food residues.

Studies have shown that saliva contains a variety of antibacterial substances, such as lysozyme and lactoferrin, which can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. In addition, saliva also contains calcium and phosphate, which can help repair early enamel damage.

6. Oral flora: your teeth's invisible friend or enemy

Imagine your mouth is like a busy city, with billions of microbial residents living in it. These microorganisms make up our oral flora, and their presence also determines whether you are prone to tooth decay.

Research in recent years has shown that the balance of oral flora is essential for oral health. Certain probiotics, such as certain strains of Lactobacillus, may help inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay. However, overuse of antibiotics or alcohol-containing mouthwashes can disrupt this balance.

3. Other tips for maintaining a healthy oral flora:

Ⅰ. Eat a balanced diet, including foods rich in fiber Ⅱ. Limit sugar intake Ⅲ. Use probiotics in moderation Ⅳ. Avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics

Conclusion: The Art of Balancing Sweetness and Health

So, next time when we see someone eating a lot of candy but still having healthy teeth, don't be jealous, because there are many factors behind this, including genes, tooth enamel, fluoride, oral hygiene habits, saliva and oral flora.

But this does not mean that we can indulge in sugar. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, moderate sugar intake, and regular dentist visits are the correct way to truly care for your teeth.

For us, every day is actually a love teeth day! Because we not only care about the health of our teeth, but also appreciate the wonders of life and the charm of science. And our teeth are also telling a unique and interesting story!

References:
1.World Health Organization. (2016). Fluoride and Oral Health. Geneva: WHO.
2. American Dental Association. (2019). Mouth Healthy: Brushing Your Teeth. ADA.
3. Frontiers and progress in dental caries research. Chinese Journal of Stomatology. 2024,59(1): 14-22. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112144-20231010-00187
4.Pitts, NB, et al. (2017). Dental caries. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 3, 17030.
5.Lamont, RJ, Koo, H., & Hajishengallis, G. (2018). The oral microbiota: dynamic communities and host interactions. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 16(12), 745-759.
6. Hujoel, PP, & Lingström, P. (2017). Nutrition, dental caries and periodontal disease: a narrative review. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 44, S79-S84.
7. White paper on the executive summary of dental caries prevention and management. Chinese Journal of Continuing Education in Stomatology.