Nutrition and Dental Health

Overview of nutrition

Nutrition is defined as the processes by which an animal or plant takes in and utilises food substances. In humans, nutrition is mainly achieved through the process of putting foods into our mouths, chewing and swallowing it. Essential nutrients include protein, carbohydrate, fat and electrolytes. Nutrition is essential for growth and development, health and wellbeing.

For more information, see Nutrition: Overview.

Nutrtion for healthy teeth

The main cause of tooth loss is tooth decay (also known as dental caries) and one of the most significant factors in the start of tooth decay is what we eat. The diet we consume can also play a significant role in erosion of teeth as well as the development of defects in the tooth structure.

For more information, see Nutrition for Healthy Teeth.

Dental health and nutrition during pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of those times where there must be extra attention placed on good dental hygiene for the sake of the expecting mother, but also for the dental development of the foetus.

For more information, see Dental Health and Nutrition During Pregnancy.

Effect of nutrition on dental health from birth to one year of age

Nutritional needs for the first year of infancy are met primarily by breast milk and/or infant formula. During the first year of life, the baby teeth begin to come through and the shape and size of the jaws change quite quickly. Adequate nutrition is of great importance, as even small occurrences of malnutrition may result in an increased risk of tooth decay.

For more information, see Effect of Nutrition on Dental Health from Birth to One Year of Age.

Effect of nutrition on dental health from one to two years of age

Between the age of 12 and 24 months, most of the remaining primary teeth erupt, and by the third birthday, all of the 20 primary teeth have erupted. Feeding behaviour changes throughout the toddler years.

For more information, see Effect of Nutrition on Dental Health from One to Two Years of Age.

Effect of nutrition on dental health from two to five years of age

At these ages, caregivers and healthcare workers need to ensure that good dietary habits, including regular meal patterns, are instilled in the child.

For more information, see Effect of Nutrition on Dental Health from Two to Five Years of Age.