Staffordshire Dentist Issues Hidden Sugar Warning For Parents

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A Staffordshire dentist has warned parents to be aware of hidden sugars in a bid to tackle high rates of decay among young children.

Recent statistics show that a large proportion of children have signs of dental decay before they even start school and dentists are urging parents to take steps to protect their children’s oral health.

Dr Mark Emms, principal dentist at The Priors Dental Practice in Penkridge, said that many parents are unwittingly giving their children sugary foods because they believe them to be healthy alternatives to junk food and confectionary; fruit juices, smoothies and fruit flavoured yoghurts are often marketed as healthy products, but they usually contain a lot of sugar.

Dr Emms advised parents to take simple steps, such as swapping fruit yoghurt for natural yoghurt and fresh fruit, replacing white bread with wholemeal bread and ensuring fruit is eaten at mealtimes, rather than as a snack, to boost oral health and reduce the risk of decay. Dr Emms also suggested that parents encourage their children to drink water and be wary of juices and cordials, which are very acidic and often contain lots of sugar.

Dr Emms advised parents to read nutritional information and food labels and to try and get their children to enjoy a healthy, balanced diet from an early age. Decay is also linked to poor oral hygiene and the message from dentists is to engage children in supervised teeth cleaning as early as possible. Brushing helps to remove harmful bacteria and reduce the risk of plaque formation. Regular dental visits are also extremely important for young children.

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