Patil S, Jalal R A S, Albar D H et al. Intake of Artificial Sweeteners by Children: Boon or Bane? J Contemp Dent Pract 2023; 24: 137-145.

Artificial sweeteners' effect on lowering dental caries will help to reduce the caries index in general.

This review examined the current evidence for the need for artificial sweeteners and outlined its implications for the health of children. Artificial sweeteners are a widely used food additive. Six main artificial sweeteners are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The conflicting results and divergent regulatory norms of each sweetener are a constant cause of debate. However, most studies have spotlighted the beneficial effects of artificial sweeteners. Dental caries diminishes with the increase in sweetener intake. An increase in appetite and eventually weight gain is observed in individuals consuming artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners are indeed a bane according to present studies, although more research on recently discovered non-nutritive artificial sweeteners is required. It also has a positive effect on overall health disorders. If one curbs the onset of dental caries, then the eventual rise is highly unlikely. Artificial sweeteners' effect on lowering dental caries will help to reduce the caries index in general. Research on novel sweeteners will help to compare efficacy.