Q. When we were kids we were told that sweets caused bad teeth. Is that still true? Does it matter what we eat?

A. What matters most is that the teeth get brushed after eating.

The notion that sweets cause bad teeth is because the carbohydrates in sweets (like any carbohydrate) can provide energy for bacteria in our mouth. The bacteria can produce acid as a result of using the energy which can cause a tooth to decay.

Carbohydrates in the presence of poor oral hygiene can lead to cavities over time if the teeth are not properly brushed.

Q. Are there better times of day to brush my teeth? I usually do it first and last thing every day but I have heard if you don't brush right after eating you might as well not brush.

A. It is always good to brush after you eat, if you can. When you can't brush after eating, you might try rinsing your mouth out with water.