Let's face it, we’ve all been guilty of the occasional late-night trip to the fridge for a midnight treat. After all, how bad for your teeth can indulging really be? Well, whether your go-to is something sweet, salty or savoury, you should know that according to research, those who regularly enjoy having a midnight snack may be setting themselves up for a load of tooth trouble further down the road.  

When we eat or drink, especially items high in sugar like cookies, candies or sodas, sugars left behind after swallowing settle on the surface and between teeth, where bacteria in the mouth break them down to produce acids. This acid build-up can damage teeth over time by wearing away enamel and causing gum disease, tooth decay or cavities.  

This is less of a problem after dinner, as brushing before bed limits the opportunity for bacteria to produce these acids, as well as decreasing the amount of time acid is present in the mouth – one of the main reasons dentists strongly encourage brushing twice a day. Unfortunately, while hard data is limited, some research indicates that not only do many adults continue snacking at night after heading to bed (and after brushing their teeth), but they also tend to choose sweet, sugar-filled foods like cookies or candies.

Some surveys have even indicated that it's not uncommon for folks to skip brushing before bed altogether, giving harmful bacteria even more time to eat away at tooth surfaces. This issue is further worsened by the fact that our mouths tend to dry out overnight as saliva production decreases. Saliva plays a key role in our oral health, being responsible for neutralizing leftover acid and washing away stray food particles. Without overnight protection from brushing, bacteria will have free reign until the next morning. Over time, this can add up, leading to tooth decay.  

So, if you do get up for a midnight treat, we recommend not taking it back to bed so it’s easier to make a beeline for your toothbrush! At the very least, finish off your snack with lots of water so you can wash away all the sugars and particles before settling in for the night.

While there’s no substitute for regular twice-a-day brushing and flossing, it’s important to not forget the importance of regular six-month dental cleanings and checkups to your overall oral health. If you’re struggling with maintaining a consistent routine, let us know at your next appointment and we’ll be able to offer some tips that may help. Booking a visit is easy, just use the orange Book Online button and reach out today.