What does the Stephan curve tell us about snacking between meals?

The Stephan curve illustrates the relationship between oral bacteria levels and the pH of dental plaque over time after consuming food. It shows that snacking between meals can lead to frequent drops in pH, often resulting in an acidic environment that promotes tooth decay. Frequent snacking can cause repeated acid attacks on teeth, increasing the risk of cavities compared to having fewer meals with longer periods of neutral pH. Therefore, the curve suggests that limiting snacks can help maintain better oral health.