There are a variety of risk factors for dental cavities.
Frequent consumption of foods and drinks that contain fermentable carbohydrates (including sugars, both naturally occurring and added) can increase the risk of cavities. Fermentable carbohydrates can be broken down by bacteria in your mouth to produce acid that can lead to tooth decay without proper dental hygiene. Other risk factors include poor dental hygiene and lack of fluoridated water or dental products.1
While there are many studies about the relationship between dental cavities, the amount of sugar consumed and the frequency of sugar intake, recent reviews2-7 and recommendations8-10 are mixed about whether there’s sufficient evidence to set an upper level of intake of added sugars to reduce the risk of dental cavities.
The best ways to protect your teeth are to brush them with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and reduce the amount of time your teeth are exposed to these carbohydrates. You can accomplish this by limiting sugary foods and drinks at mealtimes.1
Teaching kids about dental hygiene can be fun. Our One Tooth Brochure is a great resource.
