World Oral Health Day: Department of Health says cutting sugar is the most effective way to protect teeth
On World Oral Health Day the Department of Health reminded the public that oral health affects eating, speech and appearance and is linked to general health, and said controlling sugar intake is the most effective way to put oral health into practice. It gave age-specific advice and listed its dental programmes for children, adolescents and disadvantaged groups.
What it means for you
The advice differs by age: no bottle-feeding while asleep for babies; fluoride toothpaste twice daily and a yearly check for children and teenagers; thorough daily cleaning, regular checks and less sugar for adults.
Editors' take: the background
Sugar does not rot teeth directly: mouth bacteria break it down into acid, which draws minerals out of enamel. That is why how often you eat sugar matters as much as cleaning afterwards.
When a baby falls asleep with a bottle, milk or juice sits on the teeth for hours, which can cause "bottle decay", usually starting on the upper front teeth.
Key points
- Cutting sugar is the most effective way to protect teeth
- Children and teenagers: fluoride toothpaste twice a day and a yearly check-up
- Adults: regular check-ups, a balanced diet, no smoking and less alcohol
Source: Department of Health
This is a news summary written by our editors, not medical advice. Please refer to the original source and seek professional advice for your own situation.
Questions readers ask
Are sugar-free drinks always safe for teeth?
Sugar-free is not acid-free. Sugar-free lemon tea, diet fizzy drinks and sparkling water can be acidic, and sipping them often can wear enamel.
Floss or interdental brushes?
Floss suits tight gaps; interdental brushes suit wider gaps, bridges or braces. Ask your dentist or hygienist to show you.
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