Do sugary drinks lead to tooth decay?

Do sugary drinks lead to tooth decay?

As a parent, it is important that you place limits on the amount of sugar your child consumes. Too much candy, sugar-added snacks, sodas, and even juices, can contribute to tooth decay. Tooth decay can be caused by bacteria left in the mouth that produces acid. Sucrose, fructose, and maltose are all forms of sugar that are consumed by bacteria in the mouth to produce high levels of acid. Too much acid int he mouth can cause tooth enamel to dissolve faster than saliva. Saliva is necessary for neutralizing the acid in the mouth.

Even juices that don’t have any added sugar are still a significant source of natural sugar that comes from the fruit they are made of. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, natural juices consumed by children on a daily basis should be based on the child’s age. The guidelines are as follows:


Many parents often wonder what beverages their children can have without worrying as much about tooth decay. Drinks that are less of a risk for tooth decay include low or non-fat milk, which is a good source of calcium, and of course, water.

It is critical for parents to take action and make sure their children aren’t facing tooth decay because of a high sugar intake. To speak with a dentist about preventing tooth decay, contact our office today.



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