Why you should avoid mints and sugary sweets before bed

Many patients think a small sweet before going to bed has no effect. In fact, it is one of the moments most favourable to tooth decay.

What you need to know

The sugar in mints and sweets — including those labelled “no added sugar” — stays on the teeth for several hours.

At night, saliva production drops sharply, which reduces the mouth’s natural protection against acids.

Bacteria use that sugar to produce acids that attack the enamel, encouraging decay.

The right habit

Avoid sugary sweets before bed unless you brush afterwards. Evening brushing remains essential to protect your teeth overnight.