Anticariogenic Foods

Components of foods can have protective effects on tooth enamel that decrease cariogenic potential. Some foods decrease the solubility of enamel and chances of demineralization while others stimulate salivary secretions that help to remineralize tooth enamel. Substances that make the enamel less susceptible to demineralization include fluoride, cocoa, phytate, oxalate, and proteins in milk. Citrus fruits, which contain citric acid, are known to stimulate saliva production.5

Studies indicate a protective effect of cheese against dental caries. Cheeses such as aged Cheddar, Swiss, blue, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Brie, Gouda, and Amer-ican processed cheese have been shown to prevent plaque pH from dropping to a level conducive to caries formation, even in the presence of sucrose.21 The protective properties of cheese are attributed to several factors. The texture of cheese increases the salivary secretion rate, while the nutrient content (protein, calcium, and phosphorus) neutralizes plaque acids. Evidence also suggests that some cheeses enhance remineralization of enamel.22,23 Eating cheese can be an effective strategy for preventing dental caries when oral hygiene is not feasible, especially when consumed at the end of a meal or in combination with caries-promoting foods.

Milk is also considered noncariogenic. Its nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin D, and others, may offer protection against dental caries. Studies have demonstrated that phosphoproteins in milk inhibit acid demineralization of enamel and that milk enhances remineralization of tooth enamel surfaces previously softened with a cola-type beverage.24,25 Despite concerns that chocolate milk may contribute to dental caries, no scientific evidence supports this belief.26 In fact, there is evidence that foods containing milk protein, calcium, phosphorus, and cocoa—all of which are found in chocolate milk—may be less likely to contribute to dental caries than sucrose alone or snack foods, such as potato chips, cookies, and raisins.26,27 Furthermore, since chocolate milk is a liquid, it clears the mouth more quickly than carbo-hydrate-containing solids. Thus, it is less likely to cause tooth decay.