If you have been struggling with a sugar addiction, you know how hard it can be to get over it. Sugar is the most destructive substance for your teeth. Your dentist in Salina, KS wants you to know that you should do whatever you can to manage your sugar addiction to save your teeth. Here are some helpful tips.

Substitute Processed Foods For Natural Foods

Processed food contains a lot of sugar; probably more than you even realize. Even if you aren’t eating candy, it’s likely that you’re ingesting way more sugar than is good for your teeth. Try substituting natural, whole foods. That way, you control the ingredients and can avoid added sugar.

Wait 15 Minutes

Experts in addictions have determined that most cravings subside in 15 minutes or less. If you have a sweet craving, try holding off for 15 minutes and see if your craving goes away. More often than not, you’ll find you no longer want to eat that sugary snack.

Distract Yourself

You can also try forcing yourself to pay attention to something else when a sweet craving strikes. Go for a walk outdoors, cuddle with your pet, do some work, or do something else. Anything that gets your mind off your craving will work.

Brush Your Teeth

Another little trick is to brush your teeth when you have a craving for sugar. The taste and sensation of fresh mint in your mouth may make you want to retain that feeling instead of wrecking it with some sugary substance.

Seek Professional Help

If your sugar addiction is related to other problems such as alcoholism or obesity, consider seeking professional help. Something so easy as attending regular support group meetings may be enough for you to combat your addiction.

If you do have a sugar addiction, it’s very important that you have frequent dentist visits. Make sure you have regular dental appointments so that your Salina, KS dentist can monitor your dental health.