How Modern Diets Are Quietly Destroying Our Dental Health

By Melisa Mong'ina 

As sugary drinks and processed snacks become increasingly accessible, the impact of our diets on dental health is growing more severe, yet often goes unnoticed.

The rapid rise in cavities, gum disease, and enamel erosion has become a growing concern, especially in communities with limited access to nutritious foods.

Lifestyle choices also play a significant role in oral health. Many young mothers, particularly Gen Z, often feed their children processed foods, viewing it as part of a "soft life"—a lifestyle free from the efforts of cooking and washing dishes. However, this convenience comes with hidden risks to their children’s dental health.

Lydia Wanjira, a nutritionist, emphasizes the critical link between diet and oral health. She explains how the foods and beverages we consume affect oral pH levels and microbial activity, leading to dental decay.

“Diet and nutrition play key roles in tooth development, gum health, bone strength, and the prevention and management of diseases of the oral cavity,” Wanjira states.

She further highlights the importance of various nutrients in maintaining and repairing teeth and oral tissues, while noting how poor oral health can impact one’s ability to eat and obtain adequate nutrition.

“Many nutrients are essential for tooth development, maintenance, and repair, including vitamins C and D, calcium, and phosphorus. Each of these serves a unique function in supporting our teeth,” she adds.

Wanjira explains how sugary and processed foods contribute to tooth decay. These foods contain fermentable carbohydrates that, when broken down, produce acids that lower salivary pH, creating an environment for decay.

“Sugary foods contain fermentable carbohydrates, which, when broken down by salivary amylase, are fed on by bacteria in the mouth. This process produces acids that lower salivary pH to below 5.5, providing the perfect environment for decay. Many processed foods also lack the nutritional value needed to maintain good oral health,” Wanjira notes.

To counteract these issues, Wanjira recommends incorporating cariostatic foods—foods high in protein that do not contribute to decay or drop salivary pH—and anti-cariogenic foods, which help prevent bacteria from recognizing fermentable carbohydrates.

“I recommend consuming cariostatic foods, which are not metabolized by microorganisms and do not cause a drop in salivary pH within 30 minutes. Anti-cariogenic foods, when eaten before fermentable carbohydrates, can help prevent bacteria from recognizing the food,” she advises.

Hydration is another key factor in maintaining oral health. Proper hydration supports saliva production, which is essential for neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and delivering minerals to strengthen enamel.

“Adequate hydration promotes saliva production, which neutralizes bacterial acids, washes away food debris, and strengthens enamel. It also prevents dry mouth, reducing the risk of bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease,” Wanjira explains.

Socioeconomic factors, including lower income levels, lack of knowledge, unemployment, and limited access to healthcare, often push people toward consuming sugary and processed foods, exacerbating oral health issues. 

Wanjira advises individuals in such situations to prioritize locally available, in-season foods, limit sugary snacks and drinks, consume fiber-rich foods, and maintain good oral hygiene to protect their teeth.

“Choose locally available foods, as they are often more affordable and nutrient-rich, supporting both overall and dental health. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, eat high-fiber foods to stimulate saliva production, and brush your teeth twice daily to prevent cavities,” she recommends.

Wanjira highlights the lack of public awareness about the link between diet and dental health. Many people focus solely on oral hygiene without understanding the consequences of their diet on tooth decay and gum health. She stresses the need for increased collaboration to raise awareness and reduce oral decay.

“There is insufficient public awareness about the connection between diet and dental health. Many focus solely on brushing and flossing, overlooking how dietary habits affect their oral health. Collaborative efforts are needed to improve understanding of this critical relationship,” she explains.

She urges parents to serve as role models for their children by practicing healthy eating habits and educating them on the effects of sugary foods. Instilling these habits at a young age can have a lasting impact on children’s oral health.

“Parents should model healthy eating habits, as children often emulate their behaviors. Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sugary snacks and drinks. Teach children how sugar impacts their teeth and overall health, and reinforce the importance of brushing and flossing after meals,” she advises.

By prioritizing nutritious diets, adequate hydration, and education about the impact of sugary and processed foods, individuals and families can take proactive steps to improve their oral health and overall well-being.