Keeping your 'two front teeth' and all the rest this Christmas

The Australian Dental Association and the Australian Medical Association today joined forces to heighten community awareness of the importance of dental care as part of overall personal health and wellbeing.

The two organisations say that most people, including children, increase their consumption of sugary foods and drinks over Christmas and the holiday season. And that refined foods, such as crackers and chips, might also have a high carbohydrate or sugar content.

Speaking of sugary foods and drinks, AMA President Dr Steve Hambleton said: “Poor diet is one of the major contributors to tooth erosion, with soft drink and fruit juice being very significant”.

ADA President, Dr Shane Fryer, said that “consumption of these drinks should be limited, but drinking water is the best option”.

They advised:

* For children, foods such as cheese and nuts are better snacks for dental health - these should all be consumed in moderation and washed down with water.

* While it may be difficult to cut out sugary foods, snacks and soft drinks, ideally they should only be consumed occasionally and it is important that good oral hygiene practices are followed – daily flossing and brushing reduces the risk of tooth decay.