Watch Out For Hidden Sugar

Every health-conscious parent knows that sugar is the number one cause of cavities. Plenty of us adults also nibble on too many sweets. Sugar is in a lot of processed food, and at Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, we want you to be aware of hidden sugar and its risks to your dental health.

Because of cavity risks, low nutritional value, and high-calorie content, many parents want to limit the sugar in their children’s diets. Bubble gum, lollipops, and chocolate bars are among the obvious ones, but there is also sugar lurking in so-called ‘healthy’ snacks.

Here are some popular kid’s snacks with significant amounts of sugar:

• yogurt covered raisins
• fruit snacks including the roll-up and syrup-filled varieties
• rice cakes
• many brands of yogurt, including the hand-held type
• juice drinks
• flavored milk
• barbecue sauce
• fruit smoothies
• cereal bars

Controlling sugar intake is essential for lifelong oral health. When choosing lunchbox or after-school snacks for your child, make sure you read the labels.

At Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, we want the best dental health for you and your kids. Patients from Mansfield and Grand Prairie come to our office for family and restorative dentistry, and so much more. Schedule an appointment with us today!