What Effect Does Sugar Have on My Child’s Teeth and Cavities?
2 min read
Sugary treats are a delight for everyone, but youngsters love them. Sugar is healthy in moderation, but too much can damage teeth and overall health. It does not help that their favorite drinks and foods have so many hidden and added sugars. A Cumming, GA pediatric dentist can help you find out ways to help your child’s oral health in the best way possible.
Before we discuss how sugar can impair your child’s oral health, let us discuss how much sugar is safe for them each day, popular names for added sugars, and items to avoid.
Should Kids Have Sugar Every Day?
Children and teens should consume fewer than 25 grams, or 6 teaspoons, of added sugar per day, according to an American Heart Association scientific statement. They also advise against giving toddlers under two extra sugars.
Childhood obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease are connected to eating plenty of sugary foods and drinks.
Hidden Sugars: How to Find and Avoid Them?
Nutritional labels might list many terms for added sugar. Here is a compiled list of sugar’s common names to assist you in discovering hidden sugars:
- Corn syrup is high-fructose.
- Syrup from rice
- Agave honey
- Honey
- Concentrated fruit juice
- Can juice
- Evaporates
- Pure fruit juice
- The suffix “-ose” (sucrose, dextrose, glucose, maltose)
Many “healthy” kid and family foods and drinks include a lot of hidden sugars. These foods should not be a regular part of your child’s diet. The following:
- Drinks for Athletes
- 100% juice beverages
- Cereals for breakfast
- Yogurt and milk flavors
- Children should never take energy drinks.
Sugar’s Effect on Kids’ Teeth
Tooth decay results from sugar consumption. Sugary foods dissolve the minerals in tooth enamel. The enamel, or outer covering of the teeth, becomes porous if your youngster regularly consumes too much sugar. Your child’s tooth holes can grow, allowing cavities to form.
Bacteria and sweets damage your child’s teeth. Our mouths have billions of healthy and dangerous microorganisms. When toddlers and adults overeat sugar, dangerous bacteria turn it into acid. This acid breaks away enamel and creates cavities over time. Good brushing removes microorganisms on the tooth surface, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Protect Your Child’s Teeth From Sugar
Regular visits to your child’s pediatric dentist are the greatest approach to preventing tooth decay and cavities and reducing sugary foods. Your dentist can examine your child’s teeth that have caused damage to them. Furthermore, they will also provide tips to keep your child’s dental health healthy.
