A healthy, balanced diet provides all the nutrients you need for general health, including oral health. Without the proper nutrients, your teeth and gums are more susceptible to cavities and infection.
Make sure you make the right dietary choices by following the recommendations in Canada’s Food Guide. You can download it free of charge from the Health Canada website.
Remember!
A diet lacking in calcium and vitamin D increases the risk of gum disease, since these elements play an essential role in the formation of bones and teeth and in maintaining healthy gums. Drinking milk is a good way to meet your need for calcium, but also for vitamin D, since it is added to milk.
Did you know?
Cocoa contains an active ingredient that can reduce the solubility of enamel. When added to milk, its properties combine with those of milk to prevent dental caries.
Chewing a piece of firm cheese thoroughly for at least one minute after a meal can help prevent cavities. Cheese contains proteins, calcium, phosphorus and fat, which all help to neutralize the acid that attacks tooth enamel.
Foods and their nutritional importance
MAGNESIUM
Helps form bones and teeth..
Main sources
Whole grain products, legumes, nuts and seeds.
CALCIUM
An essential part of bones and teeth; makes them stronger.
Main sources
Milk, yoghurt, cheese, sardines, tinned salmon with bones, nuts, sesame seeds, soya beverages and tofu.
VITAMIN D
Helps form bones and teeth and keep them healthy.
Main sources
Milk, fatty fish (e.g. salmon, tuna) and eggs.
PHOSPHORUS
Along with calcium and vitamin D, important for forming and strengthening bones and teeth.
Main sources
Milk, cheese, red meat, poultry, fish, seafood and grains.
VITAMIN C
Important for the formation and health of bones, cartilage, teeth and gums.
Main sources
Oranges, cantaloupes, kiwi fruits, red and green peppers and green vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and romaine lettuce.
FLUORIDE
Contributes to the mineralization of bones and teeth. Protects against cavities.
Main sources
Fluoridated or natural drinking water, tea, coffee, oysters and liver.