Brussels, 12th September 2013: The treatment of dental health problems represents a tremendous strain to the European economy. Every year an estimated €79 billion is spent in the EU for the care and treatment of dental issues, and the costs are growing1. Dental problems go beyond hurting peoples’ pockets, they can make life miserable, sometimes even unbearable. Just imagining root canals, gum disease, and a dentist’s drill is enough to make most people squirm.
Given that many oral diseases can be prevented by simple lifestyle adjustments and consistent oral health regimes, there are plenty of things people can do to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Low calorie sweeteners, and the foods in which they are present, provide consumers with options for a healthy balanced diet and lifestyles. Low calorie sweeteners have no detrimental effects on teeth and are used in a variety of consumer products including soft drinks, chewing gum, confectionery, frozen desserts, yoghurts, dessert mixes and puddings.
When combined with proper oral health regimes (including regular visits to the dentist, brushing twice a day, flossing and chewing sugar free gum after eating and drinking) and abstention from tobacco products, the use of low calorie sweeteners in peoples’ diets can help as a preventative measure in addressing dental health concerns, keeping money in our pockets and ensuring our smiles remain bright!
On the occasion of European Oral Health Day on 12 September 2013, the ISA welcomes this year’s focus on the theme of ‘Oral Health and Tobacco‘. By raising awareness for proper oral health regimes, European Oral Health Day will hopefully highlight the importance of healthy lifestyles in maintaining happy mouths.