What you eat affects your teeth every day. Food feeds the bacteria in dental plaque, and those bacteria produce acids that weaken enamel. Choosing the right foods, and eating them at the right times, gives your teeth a better chance.

Foods that help

• Dairy such as milk, curd and cheese provides calcium and phosphate that support enamel.

• Crunchy vegetables and fruit such as carrots, cucumber and apples need chewing, which increases saliva and helps rinse the mouth.

• Fish, eggs and pulses add protein and phosphorus.

• Plain water, especially between meals, washes away food and sugar.

Foods to limit

Sugary drinks, sweets, biscuits and sticky snacks give plaque bacteria the sugar they need. Acidic drinks such as fizzy drinks and some fruit juices can soften enamel directly. How often you have them matters as much as how much, so keep sweet foods to mealtimes rather than snacking through the day.

Simple habits

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

• Wait a while after acidic food or drink before brushing.

• Visit your dentist for regular check-ups.

Talk to K9 Dental Hospital

Have a question about your teeth? Call or WhatsApp 070 224 3333, or visit us on Akuressa Road, Isadeen Town, Matara.