Positive Health Online

Abstract

MOYNIHAN and KELLY, (1)WHO Collaborating Centre for Nutrition and Oral Health, Centre for Oral Health Research, Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, UK.

Background

A systematic review of studies in humans was conducted to update evidence on the association between the amount of sugars intake and dental caries and on the effect of restricting sugars intake to < 10% and < 5% energy (E) on caries to inform the updating of World Health Organization guidelines on sugars consumption.

Methodology

Data sources included MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and South African Department of Health. Eligible studies reported the absolute amount of sugars and dental caries, measured as prevalence, incidence, or severity. The review was conducted and reported in accordance with the PRISMA statement, and the evidence was assessed according to GRADE Working Group guidelines. From 5,990 papers identified, 55 studies were eligible - 3 intervention, 8 cohort, 20 population, and 24 cross-sectional. Data variability limited meta-analysis.

Results

Of the studies, 42 out of 50 of those in children and 5 out of 5 in adults reported at least one positive association between sugars and caries. There is evidence of moderate quality showing that caries is lower when free-sugars intake is < 10% E. With the < 5% E cut-off, a significant relationship was observed, but the evidence was judged to be of very low quality.

Conclusion

The findings are relevant to minimizing caries risk throughout the life course.

References

Moynihan PJ(1), Kelly SA. Effect on caries of restricting sugars intake: systematic review to inform WHO guidelines. J Dent Res. 93(1):8-18. Jan 2014. doi: 10.1177/0022034513508954. Epub Dec 9 2013. Comment in: J Evid Based Dent Pract.;14(2):56-8. Jun 2014;  J Dent Res 93(5):530. May 2014;  J Dent Res 93(5):531. May 2014.