Background: The U.S. Department of Agriculture developed Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010, by taking into consideration evidence-based nutritional science, changes in the food supply and environmental influences. Conclusions: The 2010 guidelines emphasize the importance of maintaining caloric balance to support a healthy weight and selecting nutrient-dense foods and beverages to ensure adequate nutrient intakes. Americans' compliance with previous dietary guidelines has been poor, and the 2010 guidelines acknowledge the need for collaboration among individuals, the community, government and industry to ensure consumers' access to and acceptance of appropriate foods. Clinical implications: As part of the greater community, the oral health practitioner will find that familiarity with the 2010 guidelines will enable him or her to assist patients in making better food choices for oral and systemic health.