Australian teenagers could be flashing rotten smiles if they don't give up their addiction to sugary drinks that impact their teeth and health, a new advertising campaign warns.
The campaign, launched by various health organisations, warns young people not to be sucked in to downing soft drinks, sports drinks or energy drinks.
Research reveals some males are consuming as much as 1.5 litres a day of sugary drinks.
The "Thirsty" advertisement, to be launched on Wednesday, shows gritty and graphic images of the damage the drinks do to teeth.
Supported by Cancer Council Victoria, the campaign will focus on the "manipulative sweet deal" big brands are selling consumers and the horror story smiles dentists see firsthand.
Craig Sinclair, from Cancer Council Victoria, hopes the campaign’s graphic portrayal of tooth decay would prompt young people to realise sugary drinks are not worth losing your teeth over.
“We know men are twice as likely as women to consume sugary drinks, so targeted hard-hitting campaigns like this are crucial if we want to end the young Aussie male’s love affair with sugary drinks,” Mr Sinclair said.
Australian Dental Association Victorian branch chief executive Matthew Hopcraft says water is the best choice.
“If Australians can simply cut back on sugary drinks or remove them entirely from their diet, their teeth will be much stronger and healthier for it,” Associate Professor Hopcraft said.
