Nutrition and Oral Health

This book explores in depth the relationships between nutrition and oral health. Oral health is an integral part of general health across the life course, and this book examines nutritional and oral health considerations from childhood through to old age, with particular attention focused on the consequences of demographic changes. Current knowledge on the consequences of poor diet for the development and integrity of the oral cavity, tooth loss, and the progression of oral diseases is thoroughly reviewed. Likewise, the importance of maintenance of a disease-free and functional dentition for nutritional well-being at all stages of life is explained. Evidence regarding the impact of oral rehabilitation on nutritional status is evaluated, and strategies for changing dietary behaviour in order to promote oral health are described. Nutrition and Oral Health will be an ideal source of information for all who are seeking a clearly written update on the subject. 


Dr Gerry McKenna leads oral health research as a Clinical Reader and principal investigator in the Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast. He is a specialist in Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics working as a Consultant in the Belfast NHS Health and Social Care Trust. He provides teaching and training for undergraduate and postgraduate students within the Centre for Dentistry at Queen's University Belfast.  His research focuses on improving the oral health of older patients including those resident in Long-Term Care Facilities. Dr McKenna is the current President of the Geriatric Oral Research Group (GORG) at the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) and past President of the European College of Gerodontology (ECG).  He is an adjunct professor at University College Cork and a King James IV Professor at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.  He is the author of more than 100 publications.