Camilla Jessen
A new warning suggests that a popular candy may be far more harmful to your teeth than you realize.
Sour candy may be fun to eat, but dentists caution that the tangy treats are putting teeth under serious stress.
With acidity levels close to vinegar, these candies can wear down enamel and leave lasting damage.
Why Sour Candy Is So Hard on Teeth
The danger comes from two directions.
First, sour candy is full of sugar, which feeds bacteria in the mouth. As the bacteria break down the sugar, they release acid that leads to cavities.
On top of that, the candy itself is highly acidic. Some sour candies and powders measure at a pH of just 2–3 — the same as vinegar or lemon juice.
This acidity can etch away the protective enamel layer on teeth.
What Happens When Enamel Wears Down
Once enamel is damaged, it cannot repair itself.
The softer dentin underneath becomes exposed, making teeth more sensitive and giving them a yellowish appearance.
Over time, this can lead to pain, more cavities, and long-term dental problems.
A Growing Trend in Candy Consumption
Sour candies have become especially popular among Gen z.
Unlike a gummy bears or chocolates, sour candies usually stay in the mouth longer to keep the tangy sensation going — increasing the time teeth are exposed to damaging acid.
Dentists Compare Sour Candy to Vinegar
According to DR, dentists warn that exposing teeth to sour candy is almost like rinsing them with vinegar.
This repeated exposure can speed up enamel erosion and make teeth more vulnerable over time.
How to Limit the Damage
For those who don’t want to give up sour treats entirely, experts suggest a few simple steps to reduce harm:
- Eat sour candy in one sitting instead of spreading it out across the day.
- Rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward.
- Wait before brushing your teeth — brushing too soon can scrape softened enamel away.
- Choose alternatives with less acidity, like chocolate.
A Small Change With Big Impact
Dentists stress that moderation is key.
Enjoying sour candy once in a while may not cause lasting harm, but frequent snacking can add up.
With just a few changes in habits, it’s possible to enjoy sweets without causing permanent damage to your smile.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation
