Scientists warn that children’s diets rich in ultra-processed foods could lead to jaw shrinkage, misaligned teeth, and other serious health issues
A new study has raised alarming concerns about the impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on children’s facial development. Foods such as burgers, sausages, fish fingers, and chicken nuggets have long been linked to numerous health issues, but researchers now warn they could also be affecting children’s jaw growth and dental health.
Scientists from the Catholic University of Valencia discovered that children who consume diets high in UPFs are at greater risk of developing misaligned teeth, also known as malocclusion, and could suffer from underdeveloped jaws. Dr. Laura Marques Martinez, a pediatric dentistry expert, emphasized the importance of chewing solid, fibrous foods like fruits and vegetables, which stimulate the jaw and facial muscles, helping to prevent such issues.
Embed from Getty Images“Chewing solid and fibrous foods helps promote healthy jaw development, strengthens facial muscles, and supports proper dental alignment,” said Dr. Marques Martinez. “However, ultra-processed foods are soft and require minimal effort to chew, which negatively impacts jaw growth and can lead to developmental deficiencies.”
The study followed the eating habits and dental structures of 25 children aged three to five years, tracking how their consumption of soft foods was linked to changes in their teeth and jaw development. Those who ate softer, processed foods were more likely to develop buck teeth and lacked natural spaces between their teeth—spaces necessary for the growth of larger adult teeth.
Top diet expert Professor Tim Spector, known for his work on gut health and diet, commented on the growing trend: “We’ve been facing jaw shrinkage for centuries, but it has significantly accelerated over the last two decades due to diets rich in ultra-processed foods.”
The effects of these dietary habits could go beyond dental health. Inadequate jaw development can also lead to breathing issues, including sleep apnea, as the mouth and nasal passages fail to develop properly.
While the solution is clear—encouraging children to eat a more natural, fiber-rich diet—the findings serve as a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of feeding children ultra-processed foods.
