Good nutrition is essential for a healthy body and a healthy smile. Eating a balanced diet with the right nutrients is key to maintaining oral health, as it helps to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Proper nutrition means eating a variety of foods from each of the major food categories, while avoiding high-sugar foods. It is also important to floss once a day and brush twice a day, as well as to visit the dentist at least twice a year. Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus are important for dental health, as they help to protect and rebuild tooth enamel.
Eating a balanced diet can help to fight bacteria that arise from unhealthy habits, which can lead to tooth decay. Low-sugar foods can be added to the regular eating plan if completely eliminating all sugary foods is too difficult. The best diet for optimal dental health depends on age, gender, weight, height, and level of physical activity. The Public Health Service recommends the concentration of fluoride in drinking water for the prevention of dental caries. For more information on tooth decay, visit the ADA's oral health topics page on tooth decay risk assessment and management.
