The Health of Your Child’s Teeth Can Depend on Their Next Snack

The Health of Your Child's Teeth Can Depend on Their Next Snack | Kids Toothbrush Club

 
To prevent cavities, brushing and flossing regularly is the most important part of your daily routine. But did you know that what your child eats, and doesn’t eat, can be just as crucial? Bacteria in the mouth convert sugars from foods to acids. These acids attack tooth enamel and begin the decay process.
We are lucky if we can get our children to brush their teeth twice a day and our goal at Kids Toothbrush Club is get children to want to get into that daily habit. But we also want to teach the importance of good oral health. We know that children aren’t brushing after every little snack they eat, so it’s important that we choose their between meals carefully.
Foods you and your child should avoid include candy, especially chewy and gummy candy that can stick to teeth, and sugary treats like cakes and cookies. Some fruit such as bananas, raisins and dried fruits also have high amounts of sugar. And cough drops should be used in moderation as all of these items also stick to teeth. Watch your child’s consumption of sugary drinks such as lemonade, soft drinks and sport drinks as well.
Some food choices are actually beneficial to teeth and help to protect tooth enamel. These include foods high in calcium and phosphorus like chicken, milk, cheese and nuts. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best choices. Apples, pears, cucumbers and celery actually dilute the effects of sugar and stimulate the flow of saliva, which helps to protect against decay by washing away food particles. Limit more acidic fruits and vegetables such as citrus fruits and make these a part of a larger meal.
By making good food choices and brushing at least twice daily, your child will create lifelong oral health habits and have strong healthy teeth. Because every child deserves a healthy smile.

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