Discover How Added Sugars Impact Your Oral Health: What You Need to Know

At SmileCon 2025, dental professionals gathered to learn about the impact of diet—especially sugar consumption—on oral health. One key session, led by Dr. Teresa Marshall from the University of Iowa, shed light on how added sugars affect not just our teeth but our whole body.

Dr. Marshall emphasized the link between poor diet and oral diseases like cavities and gum disease. “When people improve their diet, they lower their chances of periodontal disease,” she noted. This statement aligns with recent studies showing that reducing sugar in our diets can significantly enhance overall health.

During the session, participants learned to define what added sugars are and how they damage oral health. They explored simple ways to implement dietary screening in their practices. For example, identifying patients who consume a lot of sugary drinks can be a good start.

Research shows that the frequent intake of sugary beverages not only leads to dental issues but is also tied to obesity and various chronic diseases. Dr. Marshall pointed out that high sugar diets, combined with processed foods and alcohol, could elevate cancer risks too. This highlights a concerning pattern: dietary choices can affect both oral and systemic health.

Understanding these connections is vital for dental teams. As Dr. Marshall said, “High added sugars and low nutrient intakes increase the risk of both oral and systemic diseases.” So, when they advise patients about oral health, it’s a chance to promote overall well-being.

The session also covered a structured approach to dietary counseling in dental practices. It involves three steps: screening, assessment, and counseling. Practitioners start by identifying patients at risk through poor dietary habits. Next, they assess the individual’s health history, including any dietary changes. Finally, they offer personalized plans to help patients cut back on sugary drinks and adopt healthier eating habits.

A recent survey from the American Dental Association found that 70% of dentists feel that they need further training in nutrition counseling. Dr. Marshall urged attendees to embrace these discussions as part of their preventive care efforts. She highlighted the importance of considering social factors that can affect eating habits, like income and access to healthy foods.

Ultimately, as dental professionals, there’s a duty to guide patients towards healthier choices. Integrating nutrition into dental care can greatly improve both oral health and overall quality of life.

For more insights on the connections between diet and health, check out the CDC’s Healthy Eating guidelines.

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