Sugars cause tooth decay

Yes, but other factors are involved. The association between tooth decay (dental caries) and the consumption of natural sugars in food or added sugar such as white, brown or raw sugar, glucose (dextrose), corn syrup, honey, or invert sugar has long been known. However, the relationship between the sugar content of foods and the potential to cause decay is not simple. As well as sugar, decay depends on other factors such as the hardness of the tooth surface, the amount of plaque on the tooth and the contact time between the sugary food and the teeth. Sugary foods which stick to the teeth are more likely to cause decay than sugars in drinks and other foods that are quickly swallowed. Some foods, like dried fruits, which are quite nutritious, can contribute to tooth decay.