Nutrition & Oral Health: What you need to know

This is a guest blog from the lovely team at Evolve Dentistry in Portishead, Bristol.

When we think about nutrition, we often focus on its role in energy, immunity, and

maintaining a healthy weight. But did you know that what you eat also plays a vital role in your oral health?

At Evolve Dentistry, we see firsthand how nutrition can impact teeth and gums—for better or worse. Whether you’re sipping smoothies, crunching on carrots, or reaching for that second sugary snack, your diet has a direct influence on your mouth. Here’s what you need to know.

dental check up in progress

1. Sugar, tooth decay, and the bacteria battle

Let’s start with the obvious one: sugar. When you consume sugary foods and drinks, the

bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and produce acid. This acid attacks tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities.

It’s not just sweets and fizzy drinks—hidden sugars in granola bars, flavoured yoghurts, andeven sauces can be just as harmful. Frequent snacking, especially on sugary or acidic foods, gives your teeth less time to recover between acid attacks.

Tip: Limit sugary treats to mealtimes and choose tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, nuts, and raw veggies.

2. The power of nutrients for strong teeth and gums

Your teeth and gums need specific nutrients to stay strong and healthy. Here are a few

nutritional heroes:

• Calcium & Vitamin D – Help build and maintain strong teeth and bones. Found in dairy,

leafy greens, almonds, and fortified plant milks.

• Vitamin C – Supports healthy gums and helps prevent gum disease. Load up on citrus

fruits, strawberries, peppers, and broccoli.

• Phosphorus – Works alongside calcium for strong enamel. Found in meat, eggs, fish, and legumes.

• Antioxidants – Found in berries, green tea, and leafy greens, they protect your mouth from inflammation and support healing.

3. Hydration and Saliva Production

Water does more than just hydrate your body—it helps protect your teeth. Saliva is your

mouth’s natural defense, washing away food particles, neutralising acids, and helping to

remineralise enamel. A dry mouth can increase your risk of decay and bad breath.

Tip: Sip water regularly throughout the day, and limit dehydrating drinks like coffee and

alcohol.

4. Nutrition and Gum Health

Gum disease (periodontitis) isn’t just about brushing and flossing—it also has nutritional

links. Diets low in essential nutrients can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off the bacteria that cause gum infections.

Eating a well-balanced diet supports your body’s ability to heal and defend itself—both in your mouth and throughout your body.

5. Your diet reflects in your smile

We often say, “your mouth is the window to your overall health.” A poor diet can lead to

enamel erosion, cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss. But with the right nutrition—and regular dental care—you can keep your smile strong and healthy for life.

Final thought: don’t forget your dentist!

A healthy diet is a powerful tool for protecting your oral health, but it’s only part of the

equation. Regular dental check-ups help detect issues early and keep your teeth and gums in top condition.

If you’re not currently registered with a dentist, Evolve Dentistry is here to help. Our Dental Health Plan makes it easy to stay on top of your dental care—with regular healthy mouth reviews, hygiene visits, and personalised support to keep your mouth healthy, every step of the way.

Visit Evolve Dentistry to learn more about joining our Dental Health Plan and investing

in a healthier smile.