Why is food so important when it comes to oral health?

Some foods help to keep teeth clean and healthy, while others do the opposite. When you are feeding yourself, you are also feeding the germs (bacteria) that can cause tooth decay and disease in your mouth. Plaque is a thin, invisible, sticky film of bacteria and other materials; plaque covers all areas of your teeth.

When sugars or starches in your mouth come in contact with plaque, acids form. These acids can attack your teeth; repeated attacks can break down the hard enamel on the surface of teeth which leads to tooth decay. The bacteria in plaque also trigger an inflammatory response which causes the breakdown of the gums, bone, and other supporting structures of your teeth.

There are some foods invite tooth decay, while others help prevent the build up of plaque, these are the foods you should be including more of, and limiting the others.

Good food for your teeth:

• Cheese, milk and yogurt
• Fibre rich fruit and vegetables such as apples, carrots and celery
• Nuts
• Meats and fatty fish
• Whole grains
• Green and black teas
• Water

Foods to avoid for your teeth:

• Sticky sweets
• Starchy foods that get stuck in your mouth e.g. crisps
• Biscuits and cakes
• Dried fruits such as raisins
• Fizzy drinks/ sugary juices

Top Tips for Healthy Teeth:

• Brush your teeth and gums for at least two minutes, before bed and at least once more throughout the day
• Use a pea size amount of toothpaste
• Gently brush your teeth by rotating the brush in a circular motion
• Floss regularly
• Spit- do not rinse your mouth with water after brushing
• Avoid tooth brushing immediately after eating acidic foods or drinks as the enamel on the teeth is at its softest
• Visit the dentist regularly