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You know that top-notch dental care for your child includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. But did you also know that what your child eats is just as important for maintaining their beautiful smile?
According to pediatric dentists Staci Brunell, DMD, and Priyanka Patel, DMD, from Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry in Yorktown Heights, New York, eating certain foods increases your child’s risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth stains. To keep your child’s smile as healthy and beautiful as possible, have them limit or avoid the following foods.
When it comes to tooth decay, not all foods are created equal. These foods are the worst for your family’s teeth and gums.
Sugary foods, such as candy, baked goods, juice, and dried fruits, are some of the worst foods for your child’s teeth. Sugary foods can stick to your child’s teeth for long periods after eating, increasing your child’s risk of tooth decay.
Chewy caramel, gum, toffee, and other sticky candies are hard to brush off your child’s teeth. It’s easy for these candies to get trapped on or between your child’s gums for long periods, contributing to decay.
On the other hand, candies that are sour contain acids that are dangerous to teeth. These can wear down the enamel on your child’s teeth, making them more vulnerable to tooth damage.
Foods that aren’t sweet but are made with refined carbohydrates can also be dangerous to your child’s mouth. White bread, pasta, and potato chips are all examples of simple carbohydrates that can get stuck in your child’s mouth for hours.
Fruit is a healthy part of your child’s diet, but it’s best to stick to citrus fruits like grapefruits and oranges in moderation. Citrus contains acids similar to sour candies that are tough on the tooth enamel.
Containing high amounts of sugar and acids, carbonated soda erodes your child’s teeth in multiple ways. Dark sodas can also stain your child's teeth.
Reducing foods like sweets and carbohydrates requires a commitment from the whole family. By limiting these foods as much as possible, your child can safely consume them occasionally.
Foods that are bad for your child’s teeth have a reduced negative impact if they’re eaten as part of a meal, which helps your child’s mouth wash sugars and acids away with saliva. Your child should also brush and floss immediately after eating sugary or starchy foods.
Many delicious foods are healthier for your child’s teeth. Offer your child foods like:
You can also set a good example by eating a teeth-friendly diet with your child, which helps protect your teeth.
Our team at Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry is here to be part of your child’s healthy lifestyle and maintain their smile. Contact us to make your child’s dental appointment.
