I think energy drinks are running my teeth. My work and family schedules are full, so I need to stay up for the kids when they get home from school. I haven’t seen a dentist yet this year, but I’m afraid that my habit will cause me to need dentures prematurely. My gums are bleeding. What can I expect when I’m able to get a dental appointment? Thanks. Justyn from Cincinnatti

Justyn,

Sugary drinks don’t automatically cause cavities. The trouble starts when you let the liquid sit in your mouth instead of swallowing it. Decay often develops around the necks of the back teeth, especially on the inside surfaces of the lower molars, where saliva doesn’t rinse as easily.

When you take small sips throughout the day and hold the drink in your mouth, you give bacteria more time to feed on sugar. Even after a dentist treats these areas with fillings, continuing the same habit can lead to new decay forming around the edges of those restorations.

Before changing what you drink, it helps to understand how you drink it. Small adjustments can significantly reduce the damage without requiring you to give up beverages you enjoy.

• Take larger gulps instead of frequent small sips
• Swallow promptly rather than holding the drink in your mouth
• Limit how long sugary liquids contact your teeth

Why Bleeding Gums Need Prompt Attention

Bleeding gums usually signal gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease. Like tooth decay, gingivitis results from bacteria accumulating along the gumline. When you change how you feed those bacteria and keep the area clean, the gums often heal.

Some people avoid brushing near bleeding gums because they worry about causing harm. Gently but thoroughly brushing the gumline removes the bacteria that prevent healing. Combined with flossing and regular professional cleaning, this approach typically resolves the problem.

Plano, Texas, female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.