Did you know…?

By Lauren Ward, Professional Relations and Education Manager, UK and Ireland at Philips

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In the 1940s, a horrifying scientific experiment was carried out by a group of dentists on thousands of children and adults with mental health disabilities. Individuals were coerced into consuming large amounts of sugar every day to establish the connection between sugar and tooth decay. This experiment, which ran from 1945 to 1947 at the Vipeholm Hospital in Sweden, had been commissioned by the government itself, with the study funded by the confectionery industry. Results confirming that sugar led to tooth decay were only made public in 1953 as the people who had funded the project were unhappy with the outcome. Unsurprisingly this caused a significant political stir. Despite the study being highly unethical and controversial, it led to an anti-cavity public health campaign in the late 1950s and subsequent Swedish tradition called Lördagsgodis: Saturday Candy. This is essentially a free pass on Saturdays-only for children and parents to indulge in sweets.

With sugar consumption on the rise, it is more crucial than ever to promote strong oral hygiene habits. Prioritising regular brushing, alongside education on healthy dietary choices plays a vital role in protecting teeth from the damaging effects of excess sugar.

In 2024, The Oral Health Foundation revealed alarming sugar consumption habits in the UK, with ‘a staggering 84% of the population indulging in at least one sugary snack daily, with 79% admitting to consuming up to three sugary snacks every day. Only 13% of those surveyed were taking active steps to reduce their sugar consumption.'

With sugar consumption on the rise, it is more crucial than ever to promote strong oral hygiene habits. Prioritising regular brushing, alongside education on healthy dietary choices plays a vital role in protecting teeth from the damaging effects of excess sugar.

Philips products, especially the Sonicare range combine advanced technology with user-friendly design. The innovative technology provides an effective way to brush away sugar excess, and optimise plaque removal while being gentle on gums, which is perfect for patients looking for ways to prevent cavities, gum disease or manage sensitive areas.

For more information visit https://www.philips.co.uk/c-m-pe/dental-professionals.