Viva Vitality: The link between sugar, poor oral hygiene and tooth decay

By Kaleigh Southwell on July 25, 2025.

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic health problems worldwide and the primary cause is excessive sugar intake and poor oral hygiene.

These two factors work together to create the perfect environment for harmful bacteria to thrive, leading to cavities, gum disease and other serious health issues.

When sugary foods and drinks are consumed, the bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugars and produce acids as a byproduct. These acids attack the tooth enamel-the hard, protective outer layer of the teeth. Over time, repeated acid attacks can weaken the enamel leading to the formation of cavities.

The frequency of sugar consumption is more crucial than the total amount of sugar. The more often sugar is consumed, especially between meals, the more opportunities bacteria have to produce acid and damage our teeth.

Poor oral hygiene compounds this problem. Without regular brushing and flossing, plaque-a sticky film of bacteria-builds up on the teeth. This plaque traps sugars and acid close to the tooth surface, speeding up the decay process. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar which can only be removed by a dental professional and, if left untreated, can lead to gum disease and bone loss.

These untreated issues have a huge impact on the economy. It is estimated that children lose approximately 2.26 million school days and adults lose 4.15 million working days due to dental related issues.

Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable to sugar-related decay because of their frequent consumption of sweets and sugary beverages. Statistics Canada reported that 57 per cent of children under the age of 11 have, or have had, tooth decay. However, adults are not immune-many people continue these habits into adulthood while neglecting regular dental care.

Implementing universal prevention measures, such as reducing sugar intake, regular dental checkups and the use of fluoride, could cut Canadians rate of tooth decay by 30 per cent, saving an estimated $8.1 billion. By restricting sugar intake and practicing consistent oral care, individuals can not only protect their teeth and enjoy better overall health but also have a significant influence on our economy.

Awareness and daily effort are key to breaking the cycle of decay and preserving a healthy smile for life.

Kaleigh Southwell is a Registered Dental Hygienist with Primary Care Alberta’s Oral Health Program.

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