The Impact of Sugar on Children's Teeth and Cavities
Occasionally, we all enjoy indulging in a sweet treat, and children particularly have a fondness for sugary snacks. While occasional indulgences are harmless, excessive sugar consumption can adversely affect both dental and overall health. Complicating matters further is the presence of hidden and added sugars in many of their favorite beverages and foods.
Before delving into the potential oral health risks associated with sugar, let's discuss the recommended daily sugar intake for children, as well as some commonly used names for added sugars and foods to steer clear of.
How Much Sugar Should Kids Have Each Day?
According to a scientific statement published by the American Heart Association, children and teenagers should limit their daily consumption of added sugar to less than 25 grams or 6 teaspoons. It is also recommended that children under the age of two avoid consuming any added sugars.
Consuming excessive amounts of foods and beverages high in added sugars during childhood is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease, obesity, and high blood pressure.
How to Spot and Avoid Hidden Sugars
Added sugars in our food can go by many names on nutritional labels. To help you identify hidden sugars, here is a list of commonly used names:
- High fructose corn syrup
- Rice syrup
- Fruit juice concentrate
- Evaporated cane juice
- 100% fruit juice
- Sugars ending in "-ose" (sucrose, dextrose, glucose, maltose, etc.)
Many foods and drinks targeted as "healthy" for kids and families actually contain significant amounts of hidden sugars. It is best to consume these items sparingly or as occasional treats rather than regularly in your child's diet. Examples include:
- Sports drinks
- 100% juice drinks
- Breakfast cereals
- Flavored yogurt and milk
Sugar's Impact on Your Child's Teeth
Frequent sugar consumption can result in tooth decay. The acids present in sugary foods dissolve the minerals that comprise tooth enamel. If your child regularly consumes excessive sugar, the outer layer of their teeth - the enamel - becomes porous, leading to the formation of small holes. As time passes, these holes can enlarge, allowing cavities to develop.
In addition to sugar, bacteria also contribute to dental damage. Our mouths harbor billions of bacteria, both beneficial and harmful. When children (and adults) consume excessive sugar, the harmful bacteria utilize the surplus sugar and convert it into acid. Over time, this acid breaks down the enamel's surface, ultimately causing cavities. Ensuring effective brushing removes the bacteria from the tooth's surface, minimizing the risk of tooth decay.
Protecting Your Child’s Teeth
To shield your child's teeth from sugar, it is important to not only restrict their consumption of sugary foods but also ensure regular visits to a pediatric dentist. At Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in providing a fun and positive experience for children during their regular cleanings.
Schedule an appointment with Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry today!