Dental Health
Dairy foods and dental health
Dairy does more than add flavour to your day; it helps keep your teeth strong. See how your daily choices support dental health while adding a delicious touch to your diet.
Good dental health goes beyond brushing—what you eat matters too. Teeth face daily challenges from acids in many foods and drinks we enjoy, which is where dairy becomes your ally. Dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt are packed with essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus and casein, which help protect your teeth from decay.
The benefits of dairy for your teeth
Milk has been shown to reduce the risk of cavities, making it an excellent choice between meals. Its natural sugars, lactose and galactose, are less likely to cause decay, especially when paired with calcium in dairy.
Hard cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, also helps reduce the risk of cavities. As recommended by the Australian Dental Association, eating a small piece of cheese after sugary foods or drinks stimulates saliva, which neutralises acids and protects your enamel.
Yoghurt, when it contains 5% or less sugar, is another great option. Flavoured milk and yogurt are great alternatives to sugary drinks. Although they contain some added sugar, they also provide tooth-friendly nutrients and aren’t considered acidic.
The importance of calcium
Calcium is essential for strong teeth, yet many Australians don’t meet their daily requirements. Dairy is the richest source of calcium in the Australian diet but most people need to increase their intake to meet the recommended amounts.
Tooth-friendly tips
- Drink milk or water instead of sugary drinks.
- Eat a small piece of cheese after sugary foods to neutralise acids.
- Ensure adequate calcium intake from dairy for strong teeth.