Sugar tax may prevent millions of dental procedures, study suggests

An Australian study indicates that a 20% tax on sugary drinks could prevent 3.7 million cases of tooth decay and 306,000 cases of gum disease or tooth loss nationwide in the next 25 years. Researchers suggest the tax revenue could enhance oral health services, making dentist visits more affordable and accessible. The study, published in BMJ Public Health, is the first to quantify the potential impacts of a proposed sugar tax beyond tooth decay.

Dr. Mishel Shahid, the lead author, emphasized that while the tax won't solve all dental issues, it could significantly improve oral health. The study comes as health experts support the tax, citing similar recommendations from the World Health Organization. Ten years ago, WHO suggested a 20% tax on sugary drinks would lower consumption and reduce obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay.

Since then, about 115 countries have introduced sugar taxes, with the UK having a similar levy on high-sugar drinks. Despite recommendations, Australia hasn't implemented such a tax since 2018. The Australian Beverages Council argues the tax is "illogical" and a "revenue raiser" with little evidence of effectiveness. Meanwhile, the Australian Dental Association claims Australia is "behind the times" and points to UK evidence showing reduced consumption and fewer hospital admissions for oral health diseases after a sugary drinks levy.

The study modeled two scenarios: one without a sugar tax and one with a 20% tax on sugary drinks. The differences between these outcomes help quantify the tax's impact.