Teeth

Keep smiling!

From an early age, children learn that dental health is managed and maintained through a combination of good oral hygiene and nutritional practices.

A portion of milk (189ml) is a source of calcium and phosphorous, which contribute to the maintenance of teeth. Also, the sugar naturally found in milk, known as lactose, is thought to be 'kinder' to teeth than other common sugars.

Importance of dental health

Maintaining oral health is essential to health and wellbeing. Impaired oral/dental health can impact negatively on our self-esteem, ability to eat certain foods - thereby potentially influencing food choices, and can result in pain and discomfort.

Dental caries and dental erosion are two causes of adverse dental health which are influenced by our diet. Dental caries result from the demineralisation of the teeth by acid which is produced by plaque bacteria which ferment dietary sugars. The prevalence of dental caries in developed countries has decline in recent decades, nonetheless the prevalence remains high and this positive trend appears to be halting. Dental erosion, on the other hand, results from the direct exposure to dietary acids. Examples of foods which may contribute to such acids include soft drinks, vinegar and fruit juices.

Choosing foods which provide nutrients which positively influence dental health is advisable. Sugary snacks and drinks should be avoided, but if consumed it is advisable to confine such food products to meal-times.

What about drinks

Milk and water are considered the most tooth-friendly drinks. Drinks with a high sugar content and even diet fizzy drinks (due to the acid content) should be limited.