What food contributes to dental decay?
Foods that can contribute to dental decay include those high in refined carbohydrates (sugar) such as concentrated fruit snack bars, lollies, muesli bars, sweet biscuits, some breakfast cereals and sugary drinks and juices. This is because the sugar feeds the destructive bacteria in your baby’s or toddler’s mouth. The bacteria produce acid which destroys your child’s teeth. Highly refined packaged foods such as savoury crackers and chips can also have high levels of carbohydrate (sugar). Therefore it is important to check the nutritional information panel on packaged foods to help work out which foods and drinks have high carbohydrate and sugar levels. These types of foods are high risk for causing decay, especially if eaten often and over long periods. While it is unrealistic to completely cut these foods out, the ADA has some tips to help minimise dental decay. These include: • Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods, especially those rich in calcium and low in acids and sugars • En
