Tooth-friendly Nutrition

Caries develops from a number of causes, one being which is the wrong diet, which, over time, will have a negative impact on teeth and gums.

Sweet, Sour and Sticky

Excessive consumption of sweet, sour and sticky foods encourages the development of acid-producing bacteria, which damages the enamel and leads to caries. It is not necessary to avoid these treats completely. 

However, we do recommend conscientious oral hygiene and a balanced diet with a good proportion of “tooth-friendly” foods. An individual consultation is often necessary to pin-point the exact cause for the development of caries. If you have any questions, our team is here to help. In general, though, you should stick to a few easy rules as far as dental nutrition is concerned.

Read more information on Oral Hygiene

Tooth-friendly Nutrition

• Consume as little sugar as possible. Note that the following ingredients are also sugar: glucose, sucrose, saccharose, dextrose, corn sugar, syrup, fructose, maltose and lactose. Honey and dried fruit have a high sugar content and also stick to the teeth causing the sugar to remain in the mouth for longer.
• Certain drinks contain high levels of sugar and acid (take a look at the ingredients). It is better to simply drink water. Constant sipping of any sugary or acidy drink will eventually lead to caries.
• Fruit juices contain fruit acid, which soften the enamel surface of the tooth.
• Be sensible when it comes to eating sweets. Not too many and preferably eaten directly after meals, when you are producing high levels of saliva which helps to remineralise the enamel.
• If you wish to eat sweets, don’t eat them throughout the day but rather in one go.
• Do not clean your teeth directly after consuming acidy foods or drinks, as this will further damage the enamel.
• Chewing hard foods such as whole grain products, fresh fruit and raw vegetables increases the production of saliva, which strengthens the enamel. Sugar-free chewing gum is also suitable.
• Foods containing calcium, which strengthens teeth and bones, should be consumed daily.
• Xylit Chewing Gum: Xylit chewing gum is often used in the dental surgery as part of an oral hygiene programme. Chewing gum (sugar-free of course) is considered a "smart habit", which can help keep teeth free of bacteria. In the past chewing gum containing a therapeutic level of xylit was only available at the dentist. Now it is possible to purchase it over the counter in local supermarkets or chemists.