This increase in sugar consumption indicates that health care providers in Australia, especially dentists, will increasingly provide advice and treatment for patients consuming too much sugar.
The risks of sugar can be managed by understanding its role for your health and how it is included in your diet. This understanding can help you control the health risks linked to sugar including tooth decay, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Sugar Consumption
The World Health Organization (WHO) sets a recommended daily sugar recommendation of 25 grams, or six teaspoons per day. However, Australians consume far beyond the required recommendation. A 2012-11 survey by the Australian Health Survey showed that Australians consumed (guess what?) 60 grams of sugar per day, and that is equivalent to 14 full teaspoons!
The bulk of this sugar was not sprinkled into food or drinks, but came in foods and beverages as purchased. Soft drinks, fruit and vegetable beverages are predictable sources of this sugar; however, sports and energy drinks also have “extra sugars”. But drinks make up less than a third of total daily intake of sugar, which primarily comes through food.
Some 9% of sugar is added to our diet in pastry products such as cakes and muffins, in which sugar contents can reach up to 81%. Candies contain up to 93% sugar. Even foods we consider as healthy contain high sugar such as cereals with up to 56% sugar and sauces 38%. Sugar can be easily consumed without you even being aware of eating it.
Simple Ways to Prevent Sugar Damage
Everyone can prevent the damage caused by sugar. Begin by consuming less sugar, less often. Also, it is important to not let sugar remain in your mouth for long. Here are some ways to decrease the impact of sugar on your teeth, which may cause decay and cavities:
- Don’t let sugar-laded foods stay in your mouth for long. Consume them quickly.
- Minimise your sweet cravings.
- After eating sugary or sweet foods, brush and floss right away.
- Visit your Kallangur dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
- Use a straw every time you drink sugary and acidic beverages
Comprehensive Preventive Dentistry and Oral Health Care at Prevent Dental Suite
Keep in mind that sugar is one of the top causes of tooth decay in Australia and around the globe. Failure to recognise how sugar can affect your teeth can cause health problems in the future. With our comprehensive oral health education and preventive care services you can help yourself and your family maintain a healthy smile without giving up your sweet tooth. To get the best dental care possible, visit your trusted dentist here at Prevent Dental Suite.
We are a family friendly dentist serving patients of all ages in Kallangur, Warner, Murrumba Downs, North Lakes, Petrie, Strathpine, Griffin and surrounding areas in Brisbane northside. Parking is easy, free, and located at the rear of the building (access via Storey Road).
Our Special Offers
At Prevent Dental Suite, our goal is to make quality dental care affordable. We encourage you to take advantage of our latest offers. To find out more, visit our special offers page today!
