How can choco-lovers protect their teeth?

Chocolate is a very sticky substance once it enters the mouth, says SM Balaji, dentist. He explains, “What tends to happen is that it gets stuck on the grooves in the teeth, and can remain there if brushing is not done properly.” So the doctor’s advice, is to ensure regular brushing,  at night especially. If you don’t – here’s what happens:

Saliva in the mouth contains bacteria and mucin (a protein in saliva that combines with sugars in the mouth to form plaque ).

Remnants of chocolate together with mucin and bacteria, results in fermentation if left overnight.

This leads to a type of acid produced, which takes away minerals from the enamel of the tooth.

As a result, the enamel becomes soft – more susceptible to bacteria attraction and a cavity starts to form.

So brush your teeth regularly and do angle your toothbrush right – to ensure you reach all the internal grooves.