Sameer commented: “Although treats can provide a boost to individuals in the workplace, employers should seriously consider the impact that regular sweet snacks can have on oral health. At elleven, we have spotted a 10 per cent increase in clients coming into the practice for diet related tooth decay and many attribute this to the regular snacks bought into their office. The number of reasons for bringing in sugary foods, such as returning from holiday or birthdays, is continuing to expand and this regular consumption is causing havoc with our oral health. Although the growing rates of obesity are regularly documented, many people neglect to consider the long term effects that office cake culture can have on our teeth.
“Frequent consumption of these treats in the office over a prolonged period can contribute to dental decay and a build up of plaque in the mouth. Additionally, exposure to sugar can weaken the tooth enamel resulting in erosion and tooth sensitivity. To minimise the chances of dental damage, limit snacking in the office to isolated times and, if possible, only consume these sugary snacks after meal times to prevent throughout the day exposure. For those that cannot cut these treats out altogether, I recommend chewing sugarless gum after consumption and drinking lots of water to keep your mouth hydrated throughout the day.”