Danny de Villiers Dentist

40 High Street, Weybridge, Surrey,

UK KT13 8AB

http://www.dannythedentist.co.uk

Call for Junk Food Ban to

Boost Dental Health

Its appealing price, taste, and convenience make junk food popular to children and some

adults. Regular consumption of junk food, however, can be addictive and may lead to chronic

illnesses and poor dental health.

The mouth is exposed to various elements from the environment and from the food the

person eats, making it prone to infection. Since food particles stuck in and between teeth

may lead to the accumulation of bacteria, poor dental hygiene and a high-sugar diet

increases the mouth’s vulnerability.

Sugar: Main Cause of Tooth Decay

Junk food is harmful to the teeth as it contains very soluble sugars and nutrients that are

instantly digested by bacteria. According to research from the University College London,

vending machines selling fizzy drinks and sweets in public places have a big part in the

soaring levels of tooth decay. The study analysed the effect of sugar on the teeth and found

that it is the primary—if not the only—cause of tooth decay among children and adults.

Today, tooth decay affects up to 90 percent of school children and the majority of adults. It is

considered a serious problem worldwide. Reducing sugar intake will help significantly in the

fight against tooth decay.

Move to Ban Junk Food Vending Machines

Cultures whose diets contain only 2g of sugar per day appear to have healthier dental

conditions than those consuming 50g of sugar each day. In countries with greater sugar

consumption, almost 92% of adults have tooth decay.

Nutritionists suggest an overhaul of the popular dietary goals and norms. This includes

discouraging children from consuming sugar-laden treats and fruit juices. More people are

also supporting the removal of vending machines that offer confectionery and sugary drinks in

areas controlled by the local or central government.

The adverse effect of junk food raises a red flag as poor diets are becoming a nationwide

threat to oral health. This calls for immediate action on the part of the food industry, to

reduce or remove sugars from common food items both children and adults are fond of.

Sources:

http://www.dannythedentist.co.uk

http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/junk-food-affects-children-5985.html

http://www.dentistry.net/dental-conditions/tooth-decay/