Sipping, snacking, tooth decay Published Feb. 21, 2013 By Capt. Bryan Blazer 87th Dental Squadron JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Many parents across the country will issue a common order at dinner time tonight: "You'd better eat that - it's good for you!" Conversely, it may very well be followed with," Don't eat that - it'll rot your teeth!" Now more than ever, kids are faced with an astounding array of food choices - from fresh produce to sugar-laden processed convenience meals and snack foods. The consequences of poor dietary habits have a dramatic impact reaching far beyond general systemic health. Poor oral health, in fact, is commonly the first sign of a widespread problem. Americans are consuming larger portions of high-sugar and starch food and drinkmore frequently than ever before. It's clear that "junk" foods and drinks have gradually replaced nutritious foods and beverages. in 1882, the average American consumed about 45 grams of sugar every five days (roughly the amount of sugar in one soda). Americans now consume roughly 765 grams of sugar every five days, which translates to roughly 17 cans of soda, and about 130 pounds of sugar per year. Research has shown that a steady diet of sugary foods and drinks can and will ruin teeth, especially among those who snack throughout the day. Common activities which may contribute to the tendency toward tooth decay include "grazing" habitually on foods with minimal nutritional value and frequently sipping sugary drinks such as soda, energy drinks, coffee with cream or sugar and sports drinks. Consuming sugar repeatedly can cause a dramatic harmful effect on teeth. Sugar on teeth provides a food source for bacteria, producing acid. Acid can in turn eat away at tooth enamel, which is the start of a cavity. This is not to say that all sugar can, and should be removed from the diet. In fact, almost all foods have some type of sugar that cannot, and should not, be eliminated. Many of these foods contain important nutrients and add enjoyment to eating. Tooth decay, though, is a risk for people with diets high in sugars and starches. Starches can be found in everything from bread to pretzels to salad dressing. Individuals should read labels and plan carefully for a balanced nutritious diet for both adults and children. To reduce tooth decay, individuals should only consume sugary foods and drinks with meals. - Saliva production increases during meals and helps neutralize acid production. - Limit between-meal snacks. People should eat nutritious foods for snacks instead of foods containing a lot of sugar.. - Chew sugar free gum (not sugarless). This can increase saliva flow and help wash out food and decay-producing acid. - Monitor beverage consumption - instead of drinking soft drinks all day people should instead drink water and low-fat milk. - Develop good brushing and flossing habits. - Schedule regular dental visits.