The fast way to rotten teeth

AUSTRALIAN teens are among the highest risk group for dental decay, according to the Australian Dental Association.
“Dental decay and gum disease are the most common health conditions in Australia.
“Ironically, they are easily prevented,” said Dr Greg Morris, president of the Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB).
“While water fluoridation has been implemented across most of Australia, the increased consumption of non-fluoridated bottled water, sugary soft and sports drinks, and poor eating habits is causing an increase in dental decay rates.
“We know that there is an obesity epidemic in Australia.
“Poor eating habits and over consumption of fast foods and beverages are also contributing factors to increasing decay rates.
“High acidic, sugary drinks such as carbonated soft drinks and sports drinks are likely to exacerbate both dental decay and/or dental erosion,” said Dr Morris.
“Increased consumption of bottled water, particularly by teens, can also put them at greater risk of tooth decay because bottled water does not contain the fluoride which has been so successful in reducing decay.
“Fluoride in drinking water is essential to ensuring healthy teeth.
“It has been rated by the US Centres for Disease Control as one of the top 10 public health achievements of the 20th century.”
During Dental Health Week 2006, the ADAVB will be raising awareness among Australia’s teenagers about increased decay rates and the need for dietary changes to manage the problem.