Based on a new study conducted by the American Dental Association, the age-old phrase “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” could be reformed to: “An apple juice a day keeps dental problems away.”

Tara Haelle, writing for Forbes, reported the newly-released study from the American Dental Association, which showed no association between kids consuming 100% juice and the development of teeth caries, or tooth decay:

The authors of this study saw several reasons as to why they did not see any link between the consumption of pure fruit juice and the development of tooth decay. The study showed that sufficient exposure to fluoride in our water supply and regular brushing can prevent tooth decay. The study also revealed that the antibacterial components in pure fruit juice can actually reduce bacteria levels in the mouth.

This study is in contrast to previous beliefs that fruit juice indeed causes tooth decay among kids because of its sugar content. Even the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has suggested the restriction of fruit juice consumption for kids to one cup a day due to its supposed harmful effects on their teeth. This is not without reason, however, since regular consumption of sugar has often been linked to tooth decay, and several have claimed that the sugar levels on fruit juice are no different from that of candy. Then again, Dr. Monica Crooks, a trusted Sacramento dentist will always remind patients that moderation is key.

While water remains to be your best beverage choice, along with milk and unsweetened tea, drinking pure fruit juice isn’t so bad as long as it’s within the recommended amount. Of course, regular visits to an experienced Sacramento dentist like Dr. Monica Crooks, DDS, ensure that you and your kids have better dental health.

(Source: Pure Juice Won’t Rot Your Kids’ Teeth, Forbes, December 1, 2014)