In today’s world, quick snacks like soft drinks and fast food are a part of daily life. These unhealthy food choices generally have little nutritional value and can have a strong affect on your teeth and gums.

Sugar

• When bacteria (plaque) comes into contact with sugar in the mouth, acid is produced, which attacks the teeth for 20 minutes or more, eventually resulting in tooth decay.

• To help control the amount of sugar you consume, read food labels and choose foods and beverages that are low in added sugars. Added sugars often are present in soft drinks, candy, cookies and pastries.

• An increase in consumption of soft drinks, which contain phosphoric acid, leads to even more acidity present in the mouth, leading to even higher erosion.

• Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to tooth decay. Almost all foods, including milk and vegetables, have some type of sugar. However, such foods shouldn't be removed from our diets because many of them contain important nutrients.

Nutrients

• If your diet lacks certain nutrients, it may be more difficult for tissues in your mouth to resist infection, and this may contribute to periodontal (gum) disease.

• Although poor nutrition does not cause periodontal disease directly, many researchers believe the disease progresses faster and could be more severe in people with nutrient-poor diets.

Your Diet

• Maintain a healthy diet.

• Drink lots of water.

• Limit the number of between-meal snacks. When you must snack, choose nutritious foods that are low in sugar.