Food for Thought: The Relationship Between Oral Health and Nutrition
Course Number: 583
Course Contents
Nutritional Factors in the Dental Caries Process
The etiology of dental caries is a dynamic process that involves a susceptible tooth, cariogenic bacteria in dental biofilm (Streptococcus mutans and lactobacillus), and the detrimental effects of cariogenic carbohydrates. Modifying factors also include the absence of fluoride, xerostomia, and inadequate oral hygiene. The demineralization process during an acid attack and subsequent remineralization by saliva and fluoride happens continuously throughout the day. Studies demonstrate it can take approximately 19 to 22 months for the cavitation process to progress to the dentin, making the caries process complex and continuous.17
Figure 10. Etiology of caries process
Every time food or beverage is consumed, it creates an opportunity for oral bacteria to produce an acid, initiating the caries process. One of the most significant risk factors is the frequency of sugar intake. Each exposure to fermentable carbohydrates provides bacteria with a fresh chance to metabolize sugars and release acid.17
Within just three minutes of consuming cariogenic food and drink, the pH level in dental biofilm can drop before 5.5. triggering enamel demineralization. The key to preventing the caries process is to minimize the time the oral environment remains acidic.17
Poor diet quality and nutrient deficiencies in contemporary diets are major contributors to increased caries risk. The rise of synthetic and ultra-processed food has long term effects on oral health. Both emotional and behavioral factors significantly shape diet choices that can also lead to a rise in dental caries.17
Cariostatic food, those that do not contribute to enamel breakdown, help maintain the healthy pH balance of 6.8 to 7.0. Foods rich in protein, fats, phosphorus, and calcium, such as meat, milk, cheese, and nuts can help with this process.17 Providing patients with nutritional guidance, such as reducing the intake of fermentation carbohydrates, encouraging hydration with fluoridated water and avoiding frequent sipping on sugar drinks is an essential part of comprehensive dental care.17
For sugar intake
For cariostatic foods
For hydration
For meal timing
The harmful effects of soda, juice and popular energy drinks are the leading contributor to early childhood caries and tooth decay among children and adolescents, particularly in underserved communities. A single 12-ounce soda contains ten teaspoons of sugar, along with acids that erode enamel. Even sugar free options often contain citric and phosphoric acid, which can directly demineralize tooth enamel.17
Figure 11. Sugar content in popular beverages.
Image Source: Generated by AI
Our role as oral health educators is to analyze dietary habits and causative factors to determine a patient’s risk for dental caries. The education strategies below demonstrate the importance of interprofessional collaboration and nutrition engagement that surrounds a patient’s dental journey.17
Figure 12. Education Strategies17