Can gum disease make healthy teeth fall out? Why good nutrition matters... with Dr Zanab Malik

In this episode, Prof Clare Collins talks with Dr Zanab Malik, a special needs dentist, about the vital connection between nutrition and your oral health. They cover how what you eat, drink and oral hygiene practices affects bacteria levels in your mouth as well as your teeth and gums. They discuss how regular dental visits can prevent cavities and gum disease, especially in children and vulnerable populations and include practical strategies for having a healthy mouth.

Key topics

1. The effect of fermentable carbohydrates on dental health
2. Why having a balance between good and bad bacteria matters in your mouth
3. Differences between dental caries and gum disease
4. How diet influences gum health
5. Effective oral hygiene practices for children and adults
6. The role of fluoride and protective foods
7. Tips for encouraging kids to floss and brush
8. When to see a dentist for dental issues

Resources

Dental Health Week 2026: https://teeth.org.au/dental-health-week

To access the Healthy Eating Quiz: Click on the top right hand 'green button' called 'How healthy is my diet' https://nomoneynotime.com.au/

Want a more Personalised Food, Nutrient Assessment Report? Use our Australian Eating Survey - For a 50% discount enter the 'DietCheck' code at the checkout! Purchase here https://australianeatingsurvey.com.au/

Are you in a position to make donation to support our No Money No Time website? Donate here

Here's the link to the No Money No Time closed Facebook group (be sure to take the Healthy Eating Quiz first) https://www.facebook.com/groups/386824626838448

Our No Money No Time email: nmnt@newcastle.edu.au and our Nutrition Science Bites email: nutritionsciencebites@newcastle.edu.au 

Keywords: #oralhealth, #nutrition, #dentalcare, #cavities, #gumdisease, #fluoride, #kidsdentalhealth, #dentalhygiene, #teeth, #DHW2026, #DentalHealthWeek

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