Now that we’re in the midst of summer, you and your family are in for warm weather, great food, and tons of fun! However, neither you nor your kids will be having fun when your child needs to spend summer break in the dental chair getting work done. To keep this from happening, it’s important for your family to maintain a good oral hygiene routine and stick to tooth friendly foods. Your children’s dentist in New Britain shares some good options.
What Foods Should Your Kids Be Eating?
Eating right is one of the best things that your family can do for strong, healthy teeth. Here are a few food items that you should stock up on:
Cheese
Dairy products are great for your oral health! The calcium and protein work together to strengthen your tooth enamel. You could try softer cheeses on apples or harder cheeses on crackers. You could also pick up some cheese sticks for a snack to bring on the go!
Apple Slices
Because they are so high in fiber and have a crunchy texture, they are great at keeping teeth clean! They increase saliva production which neutralizes harmful acids in the mouth. With apples, you can’t go wrong!
Baby Carrots
Just like apples, carrots are high fiber and great at keeping teeth clean. They act as nature’s toothbrush and contain high levels of plaque-attacking keratin as well as vitamin A. This is crucial in strengthening tooth enamel.
Smoothies
You can add all sorts of great ingredients to smoothies which is what makes them so delicious! Just ensure that you are using whole fruit and calcium-rich milk or yogurt. If you’re feeling like being extra healthy, add some fresh spinach. It’s delicious and great for anybody’s diet!
Water
This may not be considered as a fun snack, but it is crucial for the health of your child’s teeth. Not only is it important to stay hydrated, but since tap water contains fluoride, it can do wonders for the tooth enamel.
Which Foods Should Your Child Steer Away From?
Here are a few different types of food that can do harm to your child’s smile. Remember to only allow your child to eat them in moderation.
Corn
This food comes in both yellow and blue varieties. In fact, it can be served in many different ways, one of them being on the cob. Unfortunately, consuming this native food this way can actually be harmful for your child’s teeth. You are better off cutting it off of the cob and serving it to your child that way.
Barbeque Sauce
This is a favorite all across the United States. The problem is that many sauces of this variety at the grocery store include ingredients like sugar and high fructose corn syrup. Remember to limit your child’s intake of barbeque sauce to reduce their risk of tooth decay.
Sports Drinks
Even though they can be quenching on a hot day, sports drinks contain high levels of both sugar and acid. This is a disaster combination for your child’s smile. Not only will it erode their enamel, but it will also lead to issues like tooth decay, discoloration, and sensitivity.
On top of a good oral hygiene routine, eating healthy can do wonders for your child’s smile. Have fun this summer without having to worry about dental emergencies.
About the Author
Dr. Moe Beydoun is a children’s dentist serving patients in the New Britain, CT area and other surrounding communities. He earned his dental degree from Boston University and is a current member of the American Dental Association. Dr. Beydoun’s team includes an orthodontist, so your child can get everything they need from one convenient location. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (860) 224-2419.