[Nutrition education and oral health]

At present, reduction of the consumption of fat is the main issue in nutritional education. However, this can lead to an increased consumption of mono- and disaccharides and, as a result, to increased dental caries. Individual variations in the susceptibility of caries make it necessary to differentiate the advice for the consumption of snacks between meals. Generally, consumption of complex carbohydrates, such as bread or bread products, can be advised as an alternative for fat and sugar containing snacks. Sugar-free products can also be advised, but not unlimited because of the laxative effect of sorbitol. To prevent tooth erosion the frequent consumption of fruits and fruit juices should be discouraged.