Does your child love burgers, chicken nuggets, and other soft snacks? Scientists now warn that these foods could do more than harm their health — they might also reshape your child’s face.
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are convenience items that are heavily modified with additives, preservatives, and low-nutrient ingredients. Recent studies reveal a strong link between diets high in UPFs and over 30 major health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and anxiety disorders. But beyond these risks, researchers now say UPFs may stunt proper jaw development, leaving children with crooked teeth, weak jaws, and even respiratory complications.
The Link Between UPFs and Facial Growth
According to a groundbreaking study by the Catholic University of Valencia, children consuming high amounts of UPFs may develop shrunken jaws and dental misalignment. Dr. Laura Marques Martinez, a pediatric dentistry expert, explains:
“Chewing solid, fibrous foods like fruits, vegetables, and proteins is essential for stimulating jaw growth, strengthening facial muscles, and promoting proper dental alignment. However, ultra-processed foods are soft and require minimal chewing effort, which leads to underdeveloped bone structures and increases the risk of malocclusion.”
The research monitored 25 children between the ages of three and five, analyzing their diets and dental structures. Findings showed that kids with softer diets often lacked natural gaps in their teeth, vital for accommodating permanent teeth later in life. The study also noted a significant rise in buck teeth and related orthodontic problems.
Professor Tim Spector, a top diet expert and founder of the ZOE nutrition app, highlighted a disturbing trend:
"Jaw shrinkage has been a growing epidemic for hundreds of years, but it has accelerated in the last two decades due to ultra-processed baby food dominating children’s diets. Without adequate jaw muscle development, children are increasingly prone to needing braces and other orthodontic treatments."
The Growing Health Toll of Ultra-Processed Foods
Ultra-processed foods are not just linked to facial changes. A study published in The BMJ in February 2024 reported that diets heavy in UPFs increase the risk of numerous health issues. Findings include:
- A 50% increased risk of death from cardiovascular diseases
- A 12% higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes
- Up to 53% elevated risk of anxiety and mental health disorders
- A 21% increase in overall mortality risk
- A 22% increased risk of depression
In the UK alone, adults derive 57% of their daily calories from UPFs, while adolescents consume a staggering 66%. Health experts urge families to minimize ultra-processed food consumption and embrace whole foods that support dental health and overall well-being.
An Urgent Call for Change
Although the UK government is researching UPFs and potential regulatory actions, there are currently no policies directly addressing their widespread consumption. Nyree Whitley, Chief Clinical Officer at mydentist, emphasizes:
“Ultra-processed foods are often loaded with sugar, increasing tooth decay. Their soft texture weakens jaw development, leading to lifelong oral health issues, including difficulty eating, tooth loss, and speech problems. A balanced diet rich in natural, chewy foods is crucial for children’s facial development.”
Conclusion
For parents concerned about their child’s health and facial development, reducing UPF consumption is a vital step. Introducing crunchy fruits, vegetables, and natural protein can strengthen jaw muscles and promote better dental alignment, helping to avoid costly orthodontic interventions later in life.