Nutritional counseling related to the oral cavity

A well-balanced, nutritious diet is important for good oral health and overall health. The food we eat provides the nutrients that the body, bones, teeth, and gums need to renew tissues and help fight infection and disease, including gingivitis and periodontal (gum) disease. Dental hygienists work with their clients to promote good oral health by keeping the mouth healthy with preventive oral care treatment and nutrition counseling.

Hectic lifestyles, fast food, fad diets, large amounts of sugar and trendy supplements can have many health repercussions. A poor diet can also contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. Food high in sugars and starches increases the production of acids that can erode and weaken the tooth’s outer layer (enamel). Eventually, these acids can cause tooth decay. Lack of proper nutrition can lead to other diseases and conditions in the body such as obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and some cancers, including oral cancer.