Many foods and drinks contain sugar that causes tooth decay.
Sugary food and drink
Foods that contain sugar include:
- sweets and chocolate
- cakes and biscuits
- pastries and fruit pies
- puddings
- sugary breakfast cereals
- jam
- honey
- ice cream
- fruit in syrup
- dried fruit
- sweet sauces and syrups
Drinks that contain sugar include:
- fresh fruit juice such as orange and apple juices
- some soft drinks such as squashes, cordials and fizzy drinks
- some milk-based drinks such as milkshake mixes
- alcoholic drinks such as beers and wines
It’s important to remember that honey, fresh fruit juice and dried fruit all contain sugars that can cause tooth decay.
Preventing tooth decay
To prevent tooth decay you should reduce:
- the amount of sugar in your diet
- how often each day you have food or drink containing sugar
Limit sugary foods to mealtimes and make sure you don’t have food or drinks containing added sugar more than four times a day.
Eating a healthy balanced diet is important too. As well as preventing tooth decay, this will help you to stay healthy.
For more information see:
Read the answers to more questions about dental health.
Further information:
