A recent article published in the journal Pediatrics reported children in the U.S. are exposing their teeth to more sugar than they were 20 years ago. Many of these sugars come from sports drinks, soda and exotic coffee.

Empty calorie foods are not only contributing to tooth decay but childhood obesity. Studies are predicting as the children of the "millennium" age grow up, they will be subject to more chronic illness than ever before.

Tooth decay and especially gum disease are now suggested to be contributing factors towards increased risk of chronic illness including heart disease. In an article in October 2007, The Journal of the America Dental Association reported even dementia and tooth loss may have a relationship.

In the 1920s, dentist Weston Price (the father or modern nutrition) went around the world and compared a more modern lifestyle to rural ones for answers to tooth decay and diet. He found tooth decay to be higher in communities that ate processed foods and high sugar foods.

In most schools today, gone are the wholesome meals served in the cafeteria. Vending machines and fast food mini food courts have replaced the home made style meals.

High sugar and nutritionally empty meals are the mainstay of the youth in America. To help prevent poor oral health, we need to take a closer look at toothpaste used to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Toothpaste used to be white with simple ingredients. Most toothpaste on the market today include ingredients such as artificial sweeteners and dyes with focused attention on fluoride to help prevent cavities.

Baking soda and xylitol have been suggested to help neutralize acids in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.

A better approach towards children's oral health in this age of high sugary drinks and foods may be to go back to basics. Instead of the sugary drinks, offer your child fruit juice (in moderation) and water. Use toothpaste void of artificial dyes and sweeteners and get regular dental check -ups.

Dr. Flora Stay is the founder of Cleure (fusion of Clean & Pure) the most trusted company for chemically safe personal care and cosmetic products. For a limited time you can receive a FREE e-book "Product Labels, A Cautionary Tale" to help you recognize the products that are right for you in order to avoid allergies and sensitivities.

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