Impact of Dietary Sugars on Dental Health
摘要
The impact of dietary sugars on dental health is a critical area of concern. When sugars are consumed, they interact with bacteria producing acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to caries. Sugars, particularly those in beverages and snacks consumed in between main meals, increase the risk of developing caries. This risk is compounded by factors such as poor oral hygiene and limited access to dental care. Dietary patterns of concern are increase in the frequency of intake of sugars consumption, intake of sugars above the WHO recommended thresholds for intake and consumption of sugars in-between meals and at bedtime. Reducing sugars intake is essential for maintaining optimal dental health. Strategies include— (i) promoting awareness about the recommended thresholds for intake of sugars; (ii) training dental professionals to measure sugars intake and provide chairside advice during dental visits to encourage dietary behaviour change and (iii) participating in upstream approaches to reduce sugars including school and hospital food policy, taxation and reformulation. A multifaceted approach that combines individual dietary behaviour change with systemic policy measures is essential to curb the burden of noncommunicable diseases associated with dietary sugars.