Nutrition is not only vital for a child’s growth, but a well-balanced diet keeps the teeth healthy and white.
You might know that sugary foods are bad for teeth as they are for health. However, it can be difficult to prevent kids from eating sweets, especially during the festive season.
But you can limit the quantity of these items in your child’s diet to maintain a strong, healthy smile.
Read this blog further to know food items to avoid in the diet to prevent cavities in children.
Cavity Causing Foods
- Starch and Refined Foods
Carbohydrates contain sugar, which sticks to the teeth and creates a building ground for bacteria.
Snacking on carbs not only reduces their appetite but also prevents the saliva from reducing plaque buildup.
- Dry Fruits
Although dry fruits are a crucial part of the diet, some dry fruits tend to stick to the teeth and lead to bacteria formation.
Dates, in particular, are quite sticky. The best dentists for kids recommend a proper brushing and flossing routine after the intake of sticky dry fruits.
- Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated drinks contain a high amount of sugar and acid. Sugar sticks to the teeth while acid corrodes the enamel (the top protective layer on the teeth).
Instead of carbonated drinks, try adding fresh juice and Vitamin C-rich drinks to your child’s diet.
- Consuming Bottled Water
Although water has no taste and odour, it still contains many minerals essential for a kid’s growth and overall health.
One such mineral is fluoride, which is often missing in bottled water.
Try avoiding bottled water and if that is not possible, consult the nearest paediatric dentist to include fluorides through other sources.
Foods to Help Prevent Cavities
- Cheese
Cheese is alkaline i.e. it reduces the pH level of the mouth. Thus, reducing any bacteria formation.
Alkaline foods are known to prevent demineralisation and cavities.
Pro Tip- Eating a slice of raw white cheese after a meal balances the pH of the mouth, and is a great source of probiotic bacteria.
- Broccoli
It is always good to include raw green vegetables in your kids’ diet.
Broccoli is rich in Vitamin K1 and Vitamin C and is a great source of probiotic bacteria. It further strengthens the kids’ jaws and teeth.
- Yoghurt
Yoghurt has a high amount of casein, which protects the teeth’ enamel. It also prevents plaque and bacteria build-up.
Avoid adding sugar or sugar sources- like honey- to your child’s yoghurt. Also, do not add flavoured yoghurt to their diet.
Pro Tip- Add a bit of orange zest to yoghurt to enhance the bland flavour.
Follow these Healthy Food Habits
Incorporating the above-mentioned foods into your child’s diet can prevent cavities and enamel corrosion.
However, it can be a difficult task to constantly monitor their diet routine. Thus, it is better to consult a paediatric dentist to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Sharma Dental Clinic has professional paediatric dentists to ensure a healthy and wide smile for your kids.
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