Diet 'can impact on oral health'

Diet can play a huge part in continuing good oral health for Brits throughout their lifetime, food hygiene professionals may be interested to hear.

Professor Robin Seymour, a periodontologist and spokesman for Dentyl Active, said enamel erosion is a growing problem for people across the UK, although there is now evidence that a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 oils may afford the teeth and gums a degree of protection against this problem.

He commented: "Acid, which is primarily found in soft drinks, sports drinks, juices, wine and acidic foods, can cause a chemical loss of minerals to the tooth enamel, causing it to erode."

According to the British Dental Health Foundation, having a healthy smile has topped a poll of the most important physical features when it comes to attraction between men and women.

The smile was rated highly by 56 per cent of respondents, closely followed by faces (53 per cent) and eyes (51 per cent).