Dentists are raising the alarm about a hidden consequence of eating too much ultra-processed food: it may affect not just overall health but also facial structure, jaw development, and oral hygiene, particularly in children. With diets increasingly dominated by these foods, the implications could be long-term and widespread.
What Makes Ultra-Processed Foods a Problem?
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are manufactured using synthetic additives and industrial methods. These foods, designed to be highly palatable and effortless to consume, often lack essential nutrients while being high in sugar, salt, and fat. They include products like chips, candy, sugary drinks, and many packaged snacks that are common in households.
Dr. Smita Mehra, principal dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practices in London, highlights how this diet trend could disrupt critical developmental processes in children. “A diet high in ultra-processed foods during childhood can potentially lead to changes in a child’s facial and jaw development,” Mehra told Newsweek.
Lack of Chewing Alters Jaw Growth
The soft texture of UPFs requires minimal chewing, which can interfere with proper jaw development. Chewing isn’t just about breaking down food—it’s an essential part of growing strong jaws and aligned teeth.
Dr. Mehra explained, “Ultra-processed foods are often soft and require minimal chewing compared to whole foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, and whole grains. Chewing is a vital part of stimulating jaw growth and alignment, particularly during critical periods of a child’s development.”
Dr. Ben Miraglia, an airway dentist based in New York, noted the cascading effects. “With softer foods come weaker muscles, and weaker muscles fail to develop the jaw bones properly. This can lead to underdeveloped jaws, crowded teeth, and even smaller airways.”
In addition, chewing stimulates saliva production, which helps prevent cavities. Dr. Royce Lai of King Village Dental in Canada pointed out, “Chewing strengthens jaw muscles and advances bone growth under the gums, leading to strong, healthy teeth.”
The Role of Harmful Bacteria
The issue isn’t just physical—it’s biochemical too. UPFs are typically loaded with refined carbohydrates and sugars, which create the perfect environment for harmful bacteria to thrive. These bacteria can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
Dr. Kemia Zeinali, a Los Angeles-based dentist, explained, “Ultra-processed foods are typically high in sugars and refined carbs, which feed harmful bacteria in the mouth.”
Nutrition also plays a role. Wyoming dietitian Shelley Balls noted that an ultra-processed diet often lacks key nutrients like vitamins D, A, and C, as well as calcium and phosphorus—essential for healthy teeth and gums. Without these nutrients, children are more vulnerable to dental decay and infections.
Consequences for Long-Term Oral Health
Beyond immediate dental problems, the effects of ultra-processed foods can cascade into more significant health issues. An underdeveloped jaw, for example, can reduce airway size, leading to mouth breathing and poor-quality sleep. Dr. Mehra also pointed out that such development issues may result in speech challenges, dietary restrictions, and even emotional or social hurdles due to appearance.
Orthodontic interventions, such as braces, may become necessary to correct crowded teeth or misaligned jaws. “An early preference for soft foods may lead to a lifetime of challenges,” Mehra warned.
Steps Parents Can Take to Protect Oral Health
Experts suggest several practical ways to counteract the effects of ultra-processed foods and support healthy development:
- Include fiber-rich foods: Fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and broccoli not only provide vital nutrients but also act as natural scrubbing agents for teeth.
- Encourage chewing: Foods like cuts of meat, whole grains, and raw vegetables promote stronger jaw muscles and better bone growth.
- Monitor sugar intake: Reducing sugary snacks and drinks can limit the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Focus on oral hygiene: Teaching children to brush and floss properly helps combat the negative effects of diet on dental health.
Dr. Lai summed it up: “Chewing fibrous and crunchy foods isn’t just about nutrition—it’s essential for dental health and jaw development.”
Key Nutritional and Developmental Insights
A well-rounded diet is crucial for more than just oral health. It impacts how children grow and develop in ways we might overlook. Parents should aim to provide a variety of textures and nutrients, encouraging habits that not only strengthen their children’s teeth but also set the stage for overall health.
Key Nutrients for Oral Health | Common Sources |
---|---|
Vitamin D | Fortified milk, fish, eggs |
Calcium | Dairy products, leafy greens, almonds |
Phosphorus | Meat, poultry, fish, nuts, seeds |
Vitamin C | Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers |
By focusing on balanced nutrition and minimizing ultra-processed foods, parents can help their children avoid a range of dental and developmental problems.