A Dentist's Opinion

Excess sugar consumption is a major problem in our modern society. It has caused rampant obesity, skyrocketing diabetes rates, and even increased the incidence of heart diseases. Dentists are seeing the effects of all this sugar as well, and that’s why most of them support recent moves by the Australian government to bring in a sugar tax. With all the problems this seemingly innocuous food is causing, it’s no wonder the government and the health system are looking for new solutions to the problem

What's The Problem

The average person in 2018 eats much more sugar than they need to and more than at any time throughout human history. Not only that, the type of sugar being consumed that is being consumed more often is processed sugar, or 'bad' sugar.

There is added sugar in everything these days, not just in the obvious foods and drinks such as sweets or soft drinks. Some foods that have high sugar levels that might surprise you include low-fat yoghurts, barbeque and tomato sauce, protein bars, granola and flavoured coffee drinks. No matter how healthy you think you eat, unless you eat only raw or unprocessed foods, you are probably consuming more sugar than your body actually needs. This can have serious repercussions for your health and for your oral health.

“The tooth decay rates declined in Australia until 1996-1997 and have been going up ever since because of cola drinks”

— Dr. Amrinder Oberoi

A Dentist's Opinion

Excess sugar has implications for health beyond obesity. Dentists too are seeing the effects of excess sugary drinks in people’s diets. Soft drinks can and do cause a number of dental problems including gum disease, cavities, tooth decay and bad breath.

Studies show that even small amounts of soft drink occasionally can have serious consequences for oral health. As Dr. Amrinder Oberoi, our dentist here at Paramount Dental Sydney points out, “The tooth decay rates declined in Australia until 1996-1997 and have been going up ever since because of cola drinks.”

"Sugar is the teeth's worst enemy. Good food habits and good hygiene habits are inherited at a young age. Adults should be proactive in limiting the intake of their children. Adults too should be responsible consumers", says Dr. Amrinder Oberoi.