ULTRA-PROCESSED FOOD CONSUMPTION IN CHILDHOOD: ASSOCIATIONS WITH ORAL HEALTH AND POSSIBLE REPERCUSSIONS ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

The consumption of ultra-processed foods in childhood has increased and occurs from the earliest stages of complementary feeding, potentially affecting diet quality and oral health. This study aimed to analyze the impacts of ultra-processed food consumption on oral health and its possible repercussions on children’s quality of life, considering associated family, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. A descriptive literature review with a qualitative approach and a structured search of scientific databases and sources was conducted, including articles published between 2016 and 2026 and available in full in Portuguese or English. After the eligibility criteria were applied, 19 primary studies were included in the synthesis. The findings showed early introduction and frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods, associated with caregivers’ education, income, family composition, breastfeeding practices, caregivers’ habits, and food environment factors. Studies directly assessing oral health identified an association between greater ultra-processed food consumption and higher occurrence of dental caries and toothache. No primary studies directly measuring the relationship between ultra-processed foods and children’s quality of life were identified; this repercussion was supported indirectly by the consequences of caries and pain. It was concluded that prevention requires integrated dietary, family, and dental actions from early childhood.