The Global Impact of Sugar on Oral Health

WHO recommends that children under 2 years of age should not consume any sugar-sweetened beverages.

by Hillary Bett

Infographics26 August 2025 - 14:21

In Summary

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Dental caries (also known as tooth decay or dental cavities) is the most common noncommunicable disease (NCD) worldwide, affecting 2.5 billion people.

Even though dental caries is preventable, it poses a major health burden in many countries and affects people throughout their lifetime, causing pain, discomfort, difficulties in eating and sleeping, tooth loss and reduction in quality of life.

The consumption of free sugars in foods and beverages is the most common risk factor for dental caries and is a shared risk factor across several NCDs.

Limiting the intake of free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake – and ideally to less than 5% – minimises the risk of dental caries throughout the life course.

WHO recommends that children under 2 years of age should not consume any sugar-sweetened beverages.