Dental Caries prevention with diet

diet for caries prevention.
(April 4, 2008)

Dental Caries prevention

Dental caries is an oral infectious disease leading to the formation of acid metabolites produced by oral microorganism causing gradual demineralization of the tooth enamel and destruction of the structure of the tooth.Caries formation can occur on any tooth surface Caries occurs due to the formation of bacteria that can ferment carbohydrates and lead to formation of acid. Certain cariogenic products are added sugar, sweets, jams, fruits that are fresh or canned or dried, sweetened Dairy products, honey, brown sugar, molasses.

Certain guidelines that can be considered to prevent caries formation are:-

• General care of teeth are essential like brushing the teeth after every meals or at least twice daily, rinsing the mouth after meals or snacks thoroughly, chewing sugarless gum for 15 to 20 minutes after meals and snacks.
• Avoid sipping carbonated beverages over long period of time or frequent snacking or harboring candies sweets or mints in the mouth for extended period of time.
• Candies, pastries, crackers and cookies can be taken with the meals rather than alone.
• Combine fruits with cheese or juices with meals to reduce the risk of caries.
• Topical fluorides are available in the form of toothpaste or mouthwash that can be useful for preventing caries formation. However excess is not recommended as it can lead to floozies causing mottling of the bones and teeth.