Food Choices for Healthy Teeth in Children
A well-balanced diet is a key to maintaining good oral health in adults and children. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, choosing the right foods is essential for keeping your teeth healthy and strong. Some foods are better for your teeth than others. Sugary snacks, for example, are bad for your teeth and can cause tooth decay. Soda and other sugary drinks are especially harmful, as they contain acids that can erode tooth enamel over time. On the other hand, some foods are good for your teeth. Dairy products, for example, are high in calcium which helps to strengthen tooth enamel.
How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Strong?
Oral hygiene is just as important for kids as it is for adults. Kids’ teeth are growing, but it’s not a given that they will be tooth-free by age 17. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says that for kids to have healthy teeth, they should brush and floss at least twice a day. So, it’s essential to keep up good habits when it comes to oral hygiene and stay away from those sugary treats.
Foods That are Especially Beneficial to Oral Health Include
Proper nutrition is essential to healthy teeth, and what you eat can affect the condition of your teeth and gums. Certain nutrients are crucial for strong teeth and good oral health. These include vitamins A, B, and C, folic acid, calcium, and minerals like fluoride, phosphorus, and zinc. Other foods that have been shown to help dental health include fiber and flaxseed.
A well-balanced diet can provide your child with these essential nutrients, but to get the most out of it, you should be aware of some foods kids need to avoid for dental health. Foods to avoid; include those high in sugar, caffeine, and artificial colors and flavors.
- Apples, Carrots, Celery, and Cucumbers
Apple, carrot, celery, and cucumber are all great sources of fiber. However, what makes them great for your children’s oral health is that they also contain important nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Calcium and magnesium help strengthen the teeth. Additionally, vitamin A helps to strengthen the bones. Vitamin C helps to prevent cavities. Fiber helps to keep the body in a healthy state.
- Melons, Pears, and Strawberries
Strawberries, melons, and pears are some of the best foods for your teeth. These crunchy and juicy foods help to clean teeth by removing plaque. They are also high in antioxidants and flavonoids. These are compounds that help to protect against inflammation and infection. These foods benefit kids who love eating these types of fruits and veggies.
- Milk, eggs, and cheese
Eggs, milk, and cheese are the perfect foods for your teeth. All of these foods are alkaline and can help to remove plaque. Cheese is an excellent source of vitamin K, which helps your gums from bleeding. Milk is a great source of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which can help strengthen teeth. Eating protein-rich foods with high sugar content, such as dairy, can lead to tooth decay.
Yogurt is also a great way to add to your child’s diet. It’s high in calcium, which is vital for building strong teeth. This is an excellent option for breakfast or snack time. Cheese is also a great way to add to your child’s diet. Most cheese is a good source of calcium.
Food and Drinks to Limit Include
- Stay Away from Starchy Foods & Sugary Beverages
Sticky foods like candy, golden raisins, and dried fruit can make it hard for your child to brush their teeth correctly! These types of foods are sugary and can cause cavities and tooth decay. Sugary beverages like soda, juice and sports drinks can also lead to tooth decay. Try to limit their intake of these sugary foods and drinks to a few times per week, and brush their teeth after consuming them.
- Sticky or chewy foods
Harsh, sticky candies, such as jellybeans, can stick to teeth long after they are used and make cleaning up messy. Some ingredients may also be difficult for saliva to wash away. Dried-out granola bars and raisins can also be difficult for saliva to remove. They coat the teeth and promote plaque development that feeds bacteria, so you should only offer sweets after a meal. This way, saliva will be increased and help fight off the effects of sugar-coated teeth.
Don’t Forget the Fluoride.
Fluoride is an odorless, crystalline chemical that occurs naturally in the earth’s water, soil, and rocks. Fluoride is used in toothpaste and mouth rinses to help prevent tooth decay and cavities, with some of the benefits of fluoride also applied to bones and teeth.
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