our daily diet can help protect your teeth against cavities and keep them healthier, or it can be destructive. Tooth-healthy eating habits include the following. Eat high-fiber foods to help keep the surfaces of your teeth clean. Examples: mangoes, winter squash and celery. Neutralize the acid of sugary, starchy, sticky or acidic foods with low-acid ones such as dairy foods. Keep your teeth and jaw bone structure strong by eating plenty of foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, potassium and phosphorus. Dairy products are especially rich in calcium and vitamin D. Other sources of calcium are whole grain cereals, leafy green vegetables, nuts, soy products and calcium-fortified beverages. Good food sources of potassium and phosphorus are fruits and vegetables. Drink fluoridated water as an added prevention against cavities. Prevent gum disease with plenty of vitamins B and C. Sources of B: vegetables, whole grains, nuts, dairy products and lean meat. Sources of C: citrus fruits, tomatoes and green leafy vegetables. © Your HealthStyle, 2000.