People who eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruit and vegetables could limit their chances of needing emergency dentistry and root canal treatment, an expert has suggested.
Preventing a build-up of plaque caused by eating unhealthy foods reduces the risk of gum disease and bad breath, Sign On San Diego reports.
Registered dietician Halle Elbling told the news provider that people should eat a nutritious diet from an early age to avoid developing poor oral health.
Ms Elbling recommended that young people consume more dairy products that are rich in calcium to promote the growth of healthy and strong teeth.
Cheddar, Swiss and American cheese have been shown to maintain low acid levels in the mouth, which can prevent cavities from forming over time.
Advice website About Dental Care urges people to drink plenty of water as an alternative to sweet and fizzy drinks in order to maintain oral health.
People should also limit the amount of snacks they consume between meals in a bid to protect teeth and gums. 