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on teeth, because they are
high in sugar and cling to
the teeth. Even
unsweetened fruit juices
can contribute to tooth
decay — they are acidic
and contain relatively high
levels of simple sugars.
Fresh fruits, especially
apples, are better choices.
Fresh fruit, although both
sweet and acidic, is much
less likely to cause a
problem, because chewing
stimulates the saliva flow.
Saliva decreases mouth
acidity and washes away
food particles. Apples, for
example, have been called
nature’s toothbrush
because they stimulate the
gums, increase saliva flow
and reduce the build-up of
cavity-causing bacteria. A
chronically dry mouth also
contributes to decay.
Saliva flow slows during
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sleep; going to bed
without brushing the teeth
is especially harmful.
Certain drugs, including
those used for high blood
pressure, also cut down
saliva flow.
2. Gum disease. More
teeth are lost through gum
disease than through tooth
decay. Gum disease is
likely to strike anyone
who neglects oral hygiene
or eats a poor diet.
Particularly at risk are
people with alcoholism,
malnutrition, or
AIDS/HIV infection or
who are being treated with
steroid drugs or certain
cancer chemotherapies.
Regular brushing and
flossing help to prevent
puffy, sore, and inflamed
gums.
Gingivitis, a very common