Diet and Oral Health

All sugars can lead to tooth decay. Sugars often appear on ingredient lists under names ending in 'ose,' such as sucrose, fructose, and glucose, all of which can harm teeth. Many processed foods contain sugar, and the higher up it appears on the ingredients list, the more sugar the product contains.

Regularly consuming acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits, squash, and fizzy drinks, can cause tooth wear. The acid gradually wears away the enamel, the soft outer layer of the tooth, exposing the dentine beneath. This is irreversible and can make children's teeth more sensitive to hot and cold. To reduce the risk of tooth wear, limit acidic foods and drinks to mealtimes whenever possible.

For more advice on protecting your child's oral health, consult your dentist or healthcare professional.

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