Activity 2A: Foods that Hurt or Help Oral Health

We often hear about the foods that are bad for our teeth. Foods that are high in sugar or starch react with bacteria on the teeth to produce acids that destroy tooth enamel. Have the students brainstorm and then record in their notes some foods or drinks that would belong in this category. (Possibilities include hard candies, soft drinks, fruit juices, cookies, pies, cakes, crackers, bread, cereal and potato chips.) However, there are many foods which promote good oral hygiene. Provide the following information to students through a note-taking session. Low-fat or nonfat cheeses, plain nonfat yogurt and other dairy products are packed with calcium and phosphorus which help our teeth. Crunchy raw vegetables and fruit help exercise the gums and assist in flushing food particles out of the mouth.