Dental Health

Good oral hygiene and eating habits can reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Good oral hygiene - including regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and regular dental check-ups - is most important to keep teeth healthy.

Teeth become susceptible to decay when acids in the mouth eat away at tooth enamel.

Most of the acid in the mouth comes from the bacteria in dental plaque that produce acid from carbohydrates in food and drink. Carbohydrates include sugars and starches from a range of foods such as fruit juices, dried fruit, soft drinks, confectionery, biscuits, pastry, crisps and snack foods.

As many healthy foods contain carbohydrate, it is important to have smart eating habits that help teeth stay healthy.

Some of the acid in the mouth comes directly from foods containing acids like citrus fruits and juices, carbonated beverages and pickled foods.

Foods and drinks that stay in the mouth or are nibbled or sipped over long periods of time, are the most likely to cause tooth decay.

Try to wait at least two hours between eating or drinking food or drinks containing carbohydrate, so that saliva can neutralise acids in the mouth and help to prevent decay. It also helps to drink water after eating to rinse the mouth and remove food and drink that may contribute to decay.

For expert dietary advice to help prevent tooth decay contact an Accredited Practising Dietitian .