Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentistry

Breath Mints Bad For Teeth?

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Breath Mints Bad For Teeth?

You had a cup of coffee when you got to the office, then popped a breath mint before your next appointment to avoid “coffee breath” on your client. After that, you had another, then another because your mouth felt cleaner and cooler afterward. For lunch it was tuna salad, and yet another breath mint. And you were just diagnosed with several new cavities…

Most breath mints are almost entirely sugar. When this sugar combines with the bacteria in your mouth acid is created. The acid erodes the enamel from your teeth and voila – cavities.

Save your teeth by avoiding the breath mints (unless they are sugar-free) and keep a toothbrush handy. If you can’t brush there are now disposable alternatives such as the Colgate Wisp and others. Another great alternative is sugar-free gum.* Studies have proven that chewing sugar-free gum following a meal will reduce dental plaque and some even suggest that chewing sugar-free gum and help rebuild tooth enamel and prevent decay. Call our office at 561-394-9000 or email drmogell@drmogell.com to schedule your appointment.

Keep smiling!

* If you suffer from headache or jaw pain when chewing gum – stop. You may suffer from temporomandibular joint dysfunction or TMD. Call us today to discuss your treatment options.

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.