Dried fruit is a healthy snack for children and adults alike and is often reached for as a great alternative to sweets.
However, some dried fruit can increase the risk of tooth decay.
Leading cosmetic dentist and vice president of The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr Sam Jethwa of Bespoke Smile, shared a warning.
Speaking exclusively to GB News, he warned of the high sugar content in dried fruit such as raisins and the devastating impact it could have on teeth.
He said: “All fruit contains natural sugars, however dried fruits can damage your teeth more than fresh fruit.
“Dried fruits like raisins not only have a high sugar content, but are incredibly sticky and contain less water than fresh fruit, so will stay in your mouth for a longer amount of time, increasing the risk of tooth decay and cavities.”
Raisins are often thought of as a convenient and healthy snack for adults and children.
However, it could be wise to look elsewhere for snacks if looking to protect the teeth.
Fresh fruit can provide the same nutritional benefits as dried fruit but without the high concentration of sugar.
Dr Sam continued: “Although raisins may provide a healthy snack for children, I would try to opt for fresh fruit instead.
“Opt for fruits which are not only low in sugar, but also acidity.
“I would recommend apples and strawberries, and also vegetables such as carrots and celery, as these can work to remove plaque from the teeth. Fresh fruits such as pineapples, lemons and limes have very high acidity so can soften the enamel of the teeth.”
A good toothpaste, as well as a healthy diet, is an important way of protecting teeth.
Dr Sam added: “Both adults and children should be using a toothpaste which contains fluoride.
“It’s important to use a fluoride toothpaste because fluoride has been extensively researched in terms of how it strengthens tooth enamel — the hard outer covering on teeth — and reverses tooth decay.
“A lot of people assume that flossing is just for adults, but as soon as children have teeth that touch together and could get food trapped in between then they should be looking to floss once a day. And of course brushing their teeth for two minutes, twice a day.”