Which foods cause tooth decay?
Sugar in food and drinks
Some sugars occur naturally in food and drink, such as fruit, honey and milk.
The naturally occurring sugar in dried fruit, such as raisins, dates and apricots, can also contribute to tooth decay.
Other foods have sugar added to them by the manufacturer, which is sometimes called processed food.
These may include:
- cakes and biscuits
- soft drinks such as cola as well as fruit juice
- sweets and chocolate
- flavoured milks and yoghurts
- sugary breakfast cereals and cereal bars
- jams
- fruit canned in syrup
- sauces and syrups, such as some pasta sauces, marinades and ketchup