Keith Ostrosky, a dentist who regularly cares for young patients, has released a statement to the press regarding a new study showing the damage that too much fruit juice can do to young teeth. The British Dental Association is advising parents to limit the amount of healthy juices and smoothies that they are feeding their children. While parents may think that these drinks are healthy since they contain fruit, excess consumption can end up causing frequent cavities and tooth decay.
Findings show that roughly 25 percent of toddlers regularly drink fruit juice, and two-thirds eat sugar-filled snacks and treats. While unsweetened fruit juice contributes to a portion of a childs dietary requirements for fruit, crushing the fruit causes it to release sugars that can cause damage to teeth. Instead, it is advisable to eat the fruit whole.
Keith Ostrosky comments on these findings stating, Its a tricky situation because many parents just want to make sure that their child is getting the fruits he or she needs to develop properly. However, many kids are resistant to eating fruit whole, so parents try to compensate by blending the fruit or providing juice. While the boy or girl is getting nutrients this way, theres also an increased risk for tooth decay. Children can still consume fruit juice, but parents should put a limit on how much their son or daughter drinks each day.
Dr. Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation states, Fruit juices are becoming increasingly popular and the fruit content can make them seem like a good idea. However, they contain very high levels of sugar and acid, and can do a lot of damage to the teeth. At a young age it is unrealistic to remove sweet foods and drinks altogether from a childs diet. To combat this, it is important to try to keep their consumption to mealtimes, and ensure they only drink water or milk between meals.
Dr. Carter explains that smoothies are damaging to teeth because they were concentrated and are sipped, therefore allowing the sugars to stick to teeth. He explains that the consumption of these fruity beverages is done with health in mind, but can often cause damage in the long run.
Findings from 2008 show that 30 percent of five-year-old children living in England had experienced tooth decay. Research also shows that a small bottle of orange juice from popular British retailer Pret a Manger contained as much sugar as 13 cookies. A small bottle of Innocent smoothie had as much sugar as three-and-a-half Krispy Kreme doughnuts.
Keith Ostrosky states, Its important that parents really take a look at the nutrition facts when theyre pouring these beverages and serving these snacks to their children. While a product may have healthy ingredients, that doesnt mean that the item is actually good for teeth. Keith Ostrosky advises that increased sugar intake is not just bad for the teeth; it can lead to other health problems later in life.
ABOUT:
Keith Ostrosky is a dentist who works in Minnesota. He provides comprehensive to adults and children, offering both routine and preventative treatments. Alongside his staff, Dr. Ostrosky handles crowns and bridges, veneers, mouth guards, tooth whitening treatments, X-rays, extractions, and sealants.
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