Parent-Proven Secrets to Serving Kids Tooth-Friendly Foods
What you feed your child can affect their teeth as much as it impacts their health. Discover some savvy ways to give kids tooth-friendly foods and protect their dental health.
Slack on the Snacks
Did you know that every time your child eats, it feeds the bacteria in their mouth and increases their risk of tooth decay? That’s why cutting back on snacks can reduce both their chance of decay and trips to a kid’s dentist. Of course, everyone deserves an occasional sweet treat, but pediatric dental care experts say that if you serve sweets with a meal instead of as a separate snack, you’ll help save your child’s smile from decay.
Pack the Pantry with Healthy Foods
When your child gets hungry, if they only have healthy foods in reach, they’ll be more likely to choose them. That’s why pediatric dental care experts say you should keep your kitchen stocked with healthy foods like fresh veggies, whole fruit, yogurt, cheese, lean protein like chicken and turkey, whole grains, and nuts. Ask your pediatric dentist for ideas on adding healthier foods into meals and snacks.
Think Before Kids Drink
While it’s good to give kids tooth-friendly foods, it’s even better to also serve healthy things to drink. See, kids tend to reach for sugary juices and acidic colas, but their sugars and acids can badly decay kids’ teeth and require more trips to the pediatric dentist for care. It’s much better to give your child water or milk when they’re thirsty. When your child does have a sugary and acidic drink, have them rinse their mouth with water to wash the sugars and acids away.
Find the Recipe for Healthy Dental Care Habits
Food is a factor in dental health, but good dental care is just as essential. Teach your child to take care of their teeth by following these dental care musts:
- Brush teeth at least twice a day.
- Floss teeth once a day or more.
- Rinse with water after consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks.
