Impact of sugar on tooth decay remains a major health concern

It is important that the effect of sugar intake on tooth decay is considered alongside obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease as a major public health challenge, according to the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK).1

Public Health organizations world-wide plan to published plans to help world populations to reduce dietary sugar. These organization are helping to create plans that stresses the need to consider food policy as part of the key determinants of oral health, particularly with respect to the consumption of sugary drinks by children. This was also highlighted in the FGDP(UK)’s June 2014 response to NHS England’s Call to Action on improving oral health.

Tooth decay, the softening and eventual loss of tooth enamel resulting in cavities, is caused by acid produced when sugar and oral bacteria combine. A systematic review of studies over a 60-year period, undertaken on behalf of the World Health Organization and published earlier this year, supported the link between the level of sugar consumed and the development of dental cavities. It concluded that the risk of tooth decay is lower when sugar intake is less than 10% of calorie intake, compared with more than 10%.

Tooth decay remains a significant health concern despite the widespread use of fluoride toothpaste. Families need to implement initiatives to place sugar reduction high on the their children’s health agenda. Larrondo Dentistry suggests that good oral health as being an integral part of ensuring good overall health for all age groups.

Larrondo Dentistry supports the key aims for Action on Sugar is to reach a consensus among food and drink manufacturers to gradually reduce added sugar in processed foods and beverages.

1 . http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/278910.php