Posted on November 1, 2024
At Lewisville Kids Dentistry, we know that your child’s oral health is influenced by many factors. From DNA and dental hygiene habits to regular checkups and diet, each element plays a key role in ensuring a healthy smile. As your child grows, their eating habits evolve, and it’s important to make smart dietary choices that support their dental health. Let’s take a closer look at some healthy options to keep in mind, as well as foods and drinks to avoid.
Foods and Beverages to Include
Foods
- Apples: This popular fruit not only supports overall health but also helps remove plaque from teeth and along the gumline due to its crunchy texture.
- Broccoli and Leafy Greens: Rich in folic acid, these vegetables are beneficial for healthy gums and teeth. Just as they support a baby’s development during pregnancy, they continue to promote strong dental health for children.
- Carrots: Known for their benefits to eyesight, carrots are also high in vitamin A, which helps strengthen tooth enamel.
- Celery: The stringy texture of celery acts as a natural floss, and its high water content helps rinse away food particles.
- Eggs: Packed with phosphorous, eggs contribute to healthy tooth enamel while providing essential nutrients.
- Greek Yogurt and Yogurt: These dairy products are rich in probiotics, calcium, and protein, all of which are crucial for maintaining strong, healthy teeth.
Beverages
- Milk: Full of calcium and phosphorus, milk supports the development of strong teeth and bones.
- Water: Drinking water is a simple yet effective way to wash away food particles and sugars that can lead to tooth decay.
- Water with Fluoride: Fluoride is essential for preventing cavities. If your local water supply lacks fluoride, consider purchasing water with added fluoride, especially for your infant’s formula.
Foods and Beverages to Limit or Avoid
Acidic Foods and Beverages: While fruits are vital for a healthy diet, their acidity can weaken tooth enamel over time. Encourage your child to brush and floss after consuming acidic foods. Sodas should be avoided as they are both acidic and loaded with sugar.
Carbohydrates: Foods high in carbohydrates convert into sugars, which are a leading cause of tooth decay. It’s important to limit these in your child’s diet.
Chewy or Sticky Candy: These treats are particularly harmful to teeth as they stick to the surface and are difficult to clean off. Be sure your child brushes and flosses thoroughly after eating them.
Chewy Vitamins: Gummy vitamins can slip under the radar as candy substitutes, but they pose the same risks for tooth decay. Ensure your child’s teeth are brushed after consuming these.
Sugary Foods and Beverages: Keep an eye on hidden sugars in snacks and drinks like sports drinks, which often contain more sugar than soda.
Making Smart Dietary Decisions for Oral Health
While some aspects of your child’s oral health are beyond control, making informed dietary decisions is something you can manage. The right foods can help build strong teeth, while others can contribute to decay if not managed properly. Along with a good diet, establishing a solid at-home oral hygiene routine and scheduling regular visits with your Pediatric Dentist in Lewisville will keep your child’s smile healthy and strong.
If you’d like to learn more about how diet impacts your child’s dental health, contact Lewisville Kids Dentistry today to schedule an appointment with our expert team. We’re here to help you make the best choices for your child’s oral health!
