Candy Doesn’t Cause Cavities (But This Does)

You’ve heard it your whole life: sugar causes cavities. But it’s not that simple. Candy doesn’t directly cause tooth decay — bacteria do. Sugar just feeds them.

Here’s what really happens: when you eat sugar (or any simple carb), bacteria in your mouth eat it too. They produce acid as waste, and that acid erodes your enamel. That’s what causes cavities.

So what actually makes a food "bad" for your teeth?

• Stickiness - Gummy candy, dried fruit, and even some granola bars cling to teeth longer, giving bacteria more time to feast. Rinsing or brushing afterward helps.

• Frequency - It’s not just how much sugar you eat, but how often. Sipping soda all day or popping mints every hour is worse than having dessert once and being done with it.

• Acidic Content - Some candies (like sour gummies) are acidic and sugary, delivering a double punch to enamel.

• Lack of Saliva - Dry mouth = fewer defenses. Saliva neutralizes acid and washes away food. If you're dehydrated or on meds that reduce saliva, you're more cavity-prone.

Bottom line: sugar isn’t evil, but snacking on it constantly, especially in sticky or acidic forms, gives bacteria everything they need to drill holes in your teeth.

Want to know if your habits are putting your teeth at risk? Let’s take a look. A quick visit can uncover early signs of decay and help you keep your smile strong.