Sugar Consumption and Oral Health: What Parents Need to Know

Why Your Orthodontist Cares About Sugar

With candy consumption at an all time high, many parents are concerned about their children's sugar intake, and with good reason. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), children aged 2-18 should not consume more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar each day.

Many children will consume more than that by breakfast! One 8-ounce glass of Minute Maid Orange Juice has 24 grams of sugar alone. Add in a bowl of cereal, such as Lucky Charms with 11.3 grams of sugar in 1 cup, and your child has already consumed almost a third more added sugar than they are recommended to consume for the entire day!

How Sugar Causes Tooth Decay

It's not only sugar that contributes to tooth decay, but also the high acidity in sodas and sports drinks. So how exactly does tooth decay occur?

The bacteria in our mouths convert the sugar in foods and beverages into acid. If left on our teeth, this acid weakens the enamel, making teeth susceptible to decay and cavities.

How to Reduce the Risk of Tooth Decay

There are several effective strategies to protect your teeth from sugar damage:

1. Moderate Your Intake

Only drink sodas and sports drinks in moderation. When you do have them, drink them quickly (not sipping them over a long period of time) to reduce the amount of time your teeth are exposed to the acids and sugars.

2. Use a Straw

Drinking through a straw helps direct sugary and acidic beverages past your teeth, minimizing direct contact with enamel.

3. Rinse with Water

Rinsing your mouth out with water after having a sugary drink is a great way to dilute the sugars and wash away some of the acid before it can damage your teeth.

4. Stay Hydrated

You should be drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps maintain saliva production, which naturally helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles.

Making Smart Choices

Being mindful of sugar consumption is one of the best things you can do for your child's oral health—and overall health. Small changes, like swapping juice for water at breakfast or choosing snacks with less added sugar, can make a significant difference over time.

If you have questions about protecting your teeth during orthodontic treatment, our team at The Art of Braces is always here to help!