Does dried fruit really damage the teeth?

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An independent review published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition casts doubt on the perception that eating dried fruit is detrimental to dental health.¹

Dr Michèle Sadler, an independent consultant in nutrition science, conducted a comprehensive review of the literature and found that the view that dried fruits are 'sticky' and adhere to teeth is based on weak evidence. Dr Sadler says that further research into the effects of chewing dried fruit on the teeth is required, including balancing any detrimental effects against potentially positive attributes such as encouraging salivary flow and the presence of anti-microbial compounds and sorbitol in the fruit. The author also advises taking into account the nutritional benefits of dried fruit when delivering advice on dried fruit consumption.