Prevent Tooth Decay By Minimising Sugar Intake
Despite the many advancements in dentistry today, tooth decay still prevails as one of the most common chronic diseases. According to a worldwide study, it has a global prevalence of 35% for all ages, which is the highest among all oral health conditions. In Australia, up to 3 out of 10 adults have untreated tooth decay.
So as to solve this alarming situation, it is important to identify its main causes. One of which would be sugar consumption. Oral bacteria love to feed on the sugars that you and your kids ingest. As they do, they form plaque which produces the acids that continuously harm your teeth. That is why it is utterly important to keep sugar intake in check.
WHO’s Guidelines On Sugar Intake
In 2002, the World Health Organisation (WHO) released a set of reminders focusing on sugar intake, in an attempt to reduce its impact on dental, oral, and overall health. Sugars should only comprise 10 per cent of your total energy intake, which is equivalent to 50 grams of sugar per day. Then again, WHO recommends that the daily target should be 5 per cent or 25 grams per day.
Still, tooth decay continues to afflict a huge part of our population.
A Proposed Change To Prevent Tooth Decay More Effectively
According to researchers from London, the recommended daily intake of sugar still induces tooth decay and can still lead to its serious consequences, even with the regular use of fluoride. They have found that, for both children and adults, the incidence of dental caries significantly rose with any sugar consumption that is above 0 per cent of total energy intake. The findings of the study imply that the recommended daily intake of sugar should be lowered from 5 per cent to 3.
Additional Strategies To Get Rid Of Tooth Decay
Aside from reducing sugar intake, the researchers are also urging parents to be more aware about the harm that can be brought about by sugar on their children’s health and well-being. Also, they suggest that food labels should explicitly state the sugar content, especially if it is above 2.5 per cent. In addition, it is also important to observe proper dental care habits like brushing twice and flossing daily. Moreover, it would be highly beneficial for you and your teeth if you make time to visit your dentist every six months.
Top-Notch Dental Care In Bondi
So as to protect your entire family from dental and oral health problems, consult your reliable dental care partners here at Bondi Dental. Your trusted dentist in Bondi is committed to helping you achieve utmost oral wellness by providing you with comprehensive dental care. Call us today on (02) 9365 7187 or simply book your appointment online. At Bondi Dental, we let your smile shine.
REFERENCES:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/282553.php
http://www.aihw.gov.au/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=60129548452
http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2458/14/863