New research suggests a delicious and simple addition to your diet could be a powerful ally in the fight against tooth decay. Experts have revealed that certain types of cheese can actively help to strengthen tooth enamel and improve overall oral health.
The Science Behind Cheese and Stronger Teeth
The dental benefits are primarily found in aged, natural cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, and brie. These varieties are rich in two crucial minerals: calcium and phosphorus. These minerals work in tandem to fortify tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of the tooth, and can even help to remineralise areas where minerals have been lost due to acid erosion.
Furthermore, hard, aged cheeses contain a protein called casein. When you eat these cheeses, casein forms a thin, protective film over the surface of your teeth. This film acts as a barrier, helping to shield enamel from harmful acids that cause cavities and can lead to increased tooth sensitivity.
How Cheese Creates a Healthier Mouth Environment
The act of chewing cheese itself provides a significant benefit. It stimulates the production of saliva, which is nature's own mouthwash. Saliva naturally raises the pH level in your mouth, helping to neutralise the acids produced by plaque bacteria. This process also helps to wash away food particles, sugars, and harmful bacteria, further reducing the risk of decay.
Importantly, the study highlights that you don't need to consume large quantities to see a benefit. Less than a single slice per day could be enough to contribute to these protective effects. The findings were highlighted in a report on Tuesday, 2 December 2025.
Choosing the Right Cheese for Your Smile
Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to dental health. While natural, aged cheeses are beneficial, processed cheese products with added sugars or flavourings can be detrimental. These can contribute to the very acid production that damages enamel.
The good news for those watching their fat intake is that the dental advantages are not lost in lower-fat options. Low-fat and non-fat natural cheeses offer the same enamel-strengthening minerals and casein benefits as their full-fat counterparts, making them a smart choice for a healthy diet and a healthy smile.
Incorporating a small portion of cheese like cheddar, Swiss, or brie into your daily routine could be a simple, evidence-backed strategy to support stronger teeth and prevent decay, offering a tasty twist on traditional oral hygiene advice.
