If you’re a parent, you’re probably aware that not everything you’ll find in the grocery store is good for your child’s teeth! Since it can be difficult to encourage them to brush and floss their pearly whites, helping them choose healthier foods that don’t contribute as much to bacteria accumulation is even more important.
Below, you’ll find nutritional information and food suggestions that will promote their dental health, so keep scrolling if you’re in need of ideas.
More Veggies, Less Sugar!
Possibly the biggest change you can make for your child’s diet (if you haven’t already) is to incorporate more vegetables and less sugar into their meals. While tasty, sugar accelerates bacteria growth, increasing the risk of developing cavities. Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery, on the other hand, stimulate saliva production, which helps keep your child’s teeth squeaky clean.
Got Milk? Drink Water Instead
Make no mistake, milk can be beneficial for your child’s oral health too, particularly if it’s fortified with bone-promoting nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. However, water should still be the primary beverage in your child’s diet.
For one thing, keeping their mouth hydrated is important for preventing dry mouth and maintaining their saliva levels. For another, tap water in the US typically contains fluoride, which helps protect teeth from cavities.
Smile-Friendly Snacks
It can be challenging enough to come up with healthy meals that your child will enjoy, but finding smile-friendly snacks is its own ball game! Much of what you’ll find at the store is full of sugar, and even seemingly better alternatives like fruit chewies can be problematic. Here are some options that will actually benefit your child’s teeth and keep them going throughout the day:
- Nuts – Rich and calcium and saliva-stimulating, nuts make for a great snack. And because they contain healthy fats and fiber, they’re also super filling!
- Fruit – If your child is craving something sweet, the natural sugars in fruit are a much better option than the processed sugar found in most other foods.
- Cheese – The protein in cheese also makes it a filling snack, plus its packed with calcium and stimulates saliva.
It can be difficult to plan smile-friendly meals for your child. There are healthy options out there, though – you just have to know what to look for! This list is a good place to get started. If you’re ever in need of more ideas, don’t hesitate to ask your pediatric dentist for more suggestions.
About the Practice
At Tic Tac Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, we have a total of three pediatric dentists on staff. Each of their unique skills and experiences help us provide truly comprehensive dental care to our young patients. If you’re in need of more food ideas that will promote your child’s dental health, let us know! Our friendly team will be happy to provide suggestions. To contact our office, call 630-995-3393.