I believe many people have heard the good saying 'Eat less sugar, your teeth are broken!'. However, let me tell you a truth: the real culprit of dental caries is not sugar! However, the 'sweet tooth party' should not take it lightly. Put away this dental guide quickly! The initiator of dental caries is bacteria. The results of the Fourth National Oral Health Epidemiological Survey show that on average, one in every three 12-year-old children in China suffers from dental caries; The dental caries rate among people aged 35 to 44 is as high as 89%, with 9 out of every 10 people currently suffering from or having previously suffered from dental caries. Dental caries has become one of the most common diseases that pose a threat to residents' oral health. When it comes to dental caries, many people believe it is caused by eating sugar. Regarding this, Ma Lili, Executive Deputy Secretary General of the China Dental Disease Prevention and Control Foundation, stated that people often attribute the "culprit" of dental caries solely to sugary foods and beverages, but overlook that dental caries is a disease caused by multiple factors and closely related to lifestyle. If the mouth is not cleaned in a timely manner after eating, residual food will provide energy for bacteria in the metabolic process, causing them to continue producing acid, and over time, dental caries will form. In fact, the culprit of dental caries is bacteria. The occurrence of dental caries is the result of the collusion of bacteria, food, and time, and the key is whether the bacteria have enough time to commit the crime. Eating and drinking fast and clean food, as well as having good teeth, can be a delicious dessert that is often irresistible. However, if consumed in large quantities for a long time, it can increase the risk of dental caries and obesity. Ma Lili reminds that in order to enjoy delicious food while maintaining dental health, there are two key factors: one is to eat in moderation, and the other is to have good oral hygiene habits. In daily life, one can scientifically choose food according to personal circumstances, and after tasting sugary foods and beverages, clean the mouth in a timely manner by brushing teeth, rinsing mouth, etc., while using fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash to help improve the acid resistance of teeth and repair early damage. This way, you can not only experience the sweet taste, but also take care of your dental health. It is also important to rinse your mouth with one more step for oral hygiene. Studies have shown that brushing teeth alone can only clean about 25% of the oral area, mainly concentrated on the surface of the teeth; Rinsing mouth after meals and before bedtime can effectively remove areas that are difficult for toothbrushes to reach, such as gum edges and gaps, achieving a more comprehensive cleaning. Rinsing with clean water can remove food residue and oral sugar. If conditions permit, it is recommended to use mouthwash, which not only quickly kills bacteria and effectively reduces dental plaque, but also prolongs the antibacterial effect time. (New Society)