Assoc. Prof. Dr. İzgen Karakaya, a faculty member at the Faculty of Dentistry of the European University of Lefke (EUL), provided information on dental caries, stating: “Dietary habits, frequency of eating, and the types of food consumed all influence the development of dental caries.”

“Dental caries are caused by acid production from carbohydrate fermentation by cariogenic microorganisms/bacteria present in the oral cavity, which leads over time to the destruction of hard dental tissues. Although often delayed in treatment or ignored in terms of prevention, dental caries are not a simple condition but a widespread chronic disease encountered globally,” said Karakaya, adding that dental caries begin in every individual’s mouth depending on various factors but can be prevented or halted with protective approaches.

Karakaya continued: “Caries in their early stages, which do not yet result in the loss of dental hard tissue, can be halted through preventive methods to preserve oral health. However, advanced caries that cause the loss of dental hard tissue require treatment through fillings, root canals, crowns, or similar restorations. Especially among adults, while initial caries observed on the chewing surfaces or between teeth may prevent the dream of having zero cavities, achieving zero restorations and zero tooth loss with protective strategies is still possible.”

Karakaya added, “Dietary habits, eating frequency, and the types of foods consumed in a diet affect the development of dental caries. The main cariogenic foods are carbohydrates. Sugar, which also negatively impacts overall health, serves as an energy source for oral bacteria and facilitates their adhesion to tooth surfaces, thus increasing the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth. For this reason, the ideal approach is to avoid sugary foods entirely. However, carbohydrates other than those containing refined sugar are important energy sources and part of a balanced diet, so eliminating them may disrupt proper nutrition. Still, for both oral and general health, such foods should be consumed in moderation. It takes at least 20 minutes to neutralize the acids produced by bacteria after carbohydrate consumption. Therefore, frequent and short-interval carbohydrate consumption throughout the day provides a continuous food source for bacteria in the mouth, increasing both the risk of caries formation and the progression of existing caries. Carbohydrate intake should be kept to main meals and consumed in moderation. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and ayran, as well as nuts like walnuts and almonds, help reduce the time required to neutralize these acids when consumed with carbohydrate-rich meals, significantly lowering the risk of caries. Brushing teeth properly after consumption ensures effective cleaning and protects teeth.”

Karakaya further stated that when brushing is not possible after meals, consuming firm, fibrous fruits and vegetables with relatively low sugar content—such as carrots, celery, or apples—can help remove food residues from tooth surfaces. She continued, “If brushing isn’t possible, chewing xylitol-containing gum for 20 minutes can help prevent dental caries. These gums increase salivary flow and help neutralize acids in the mouth more quickly. At this point, sugary and acidic beverages are among the most critical culprits. Acidic drinks soften tooth tissues, so brushing immediately after consuming them should be avoided. Otherwise, erosion and tooth sensitivity may occur. After consuming acidic foods or beverages, the mouth should be rinsed with water, and brushing should be delayed for at least 30 minutes.”

In conclusion, Karakaya stated, “Studies show that over 700 types of microorganisms exist in the oral cavity. As long as there is balance among these microorganisms, oral and dental health can be maintained. When this balance is disrupted, the increase in harmful bacteria becomes destructive. Cariogenic microorganisms appear as plaque on the tooth surfaces, and minimizing their presence is crucial for oral health. Our most effective tools in removing plaque are toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash. Brushing at least twice a day with proper technique will prevent the proliferation of cariogenic bacteria and help protect the teeth. Unless otherwise advised by your dentist, the ideal method is to use a medium-bristled toothbrush and brush with a sweeping motion from the gums toward the oral cavity to remove plaque from tooth surfaces.”