Sometimes a snack or beverage may appear innocent, when in fact it’s harbouring lots of hidden sugar. This is bad news for your teeth.

We’re not talking about chocolate and lollies, which are obviously loaded with sugar. We’re talking about food and drink that have unexpected sugar, or perhaps more alarmingly, market themselves as a healthy option.

You might think a dentist would be quite happy to see people eating food that can cause dental decay (After all, decay means more work for Dentists right?) But you couldn’t be more wrong. At MC Dental we’re strong advocates for good dental hygiene and healthy living. So let’s take a look at some of the food and drink that doesn’t love you back:

• SOFT DRINKS AND FRUIT JUICE. Keep a particular eye out for juice drinks that may look like they’re juice, but are actually a mix of juice, flavour, water and SUGAR. Even 100% juice drinks can be loaded with naturally occurring sugars that are still bad news for tooth enamel. We recommend drinking water and eating whole fruit as an alternative to drinking soft drinks and fruit juice.
• BISCUITS AND CAKES. These are sneaking their way into snack and sometimes even breakfast options. But don’t be fooled -The amount of sugar can be staggering. Natural yoghurt, porridge or wholegrain toast are much better options and will keep you feeling fuller for longer.
• ALCOHOLIC DRINKS. We’re sorry to tell you that alcoholic drinks are often an offender for added sugar and should be consumed in moderation. On a side note, it won’t just be your teeth that benefit from a reduction in alcoholic drinks.
• DAIRY PRODUCTS. Flavoured milks, yoghurts, and dairy based desserts like ice-cream can be cram-packed with sugar. Be particularly careful with low-fat dairy desserts, which whilst low in fat, can be high in sugar. How naughty!
• SAVOURY FOODS. This one might take you by surprise but yes, savoury foods such as stir-in sauces, ketchup and potato chips often contain sugar.

The information contained on this website and websites linked to this website (Information) does not constitute or comprise comprehensive medical or dental advice. You should seek dental advice directly from your dentist before acting or relying on the Information.

First published: 06 November 2014

Ready to book? Book online using the button below or call the clinic on (03) 8608 8968

BOOK NOW