The types of foods that cause tooth decay contain refined sugars such as is found in candy, soft drinks, and crackers.
Refined sugars stay in the mouth often long enough to react to the bacteria in plaque.
Natural sugars are found in fruits and vegetables but they usually clear the mouth rapidly before the sugar is converted. Dried fruits, such as raisins, contained a concentrated form of natural sugar that sticks to the teeth. If raisins are ingested with nuts or grains as in cereal, the stickiness is generally washed away from the teeth. Children's chewables, whether they are in the form of vitamins or analgesics, should always be followed by the child rinsing their mouth with clear water. Aspirin and vitamin C both have an acid base and are mixed with sugar to make it more palatable for the child.