Cavities are a global menace; behind the common cold, they’re the second-most common health condition, with an estimated 90% of adults in the US having had at least one in their lifetime. However, this condition isn’t exclusive to adults – studies also show that children are just as likely, if not more likely, to develop cavities during their youth!
But like most dental issues, cavities can be prevented, and one of the best ways that children can avoid getting one is by sticking to a healthy diet. As a parent, you play a large part in this! Here are some healthy snack recipes and ideas perfect for your child’s school lunch, all aimed at preserving their dental health while also putting a smile on their face!
Sensible Snack Options for Children
Children are known for being picky eaters – but when their smile is at stake, it’s wise to pay extra close attention to their dietary habits and encourage sensible options whenever possible. Here’s a list of several snack options perfect for children of all ages:
- Yogurt, which is also an excellent source of protein and calcium.
- Fruits such as apples, bananas, pears, and grapes; most contain high fiber and vitamins.
- Veggies like carrots, kale, broccoli, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes, which are in their own right an excellent substitute for starchy, regular spuds.
- Cheeses usually contain vitamins and high amounts of calcium; cottage cheese and ricotta cheese in particular are good options since even very young children can eat them.
Smile-Conscious Beverages for Children
Did you know dentists used to call early dental cavities “baby bottle tooth decay” because they would often occur in children who drank milk or juice during the night? This habit allows the sugars from drinks to sit on the teeth all throughout the night, drastically raising the risk of cavities forming.
What’s worse is that many drinks that are marketed towards children, including fruit juices, sports and energy drinks, and of course, soda, all normally contain high amounts of sugar. Do your child’s smile a favor and encourage other beverages, such as water, milk, or green tea.
Additional Tips to Keep in Mind:
Although diet plays a large role in preventing cavities, it’s not the only pertinent factor. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind to help protect your child’s smile from cavities:
- Ensure they’re staying on top of their oral hygiene regimen by brushing and flossing every day. If you do this yourself, they’re more likely to adopt your healthy habits.
- Be sure they’re attending their semi-annual dental visits and remember that all children should attend their first checkup no later than their first birthday.
- Be wary of sugary snacks and candies; it’s okay for children to have these in moderation, but overconsumption or negligent brushing habits can lead to cavities or even more serious dental issues.
The bottom line is that when it comes to our kids, it helps to be a little extra mindful of what they’re eating, especially given their high cavity risk. That said, if you stick with some of these options, putting together a menu your little one will love shouldn’t be too tall of a task!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on the detailed level of care that we’re able to provide for families in Randolph and the surrounding community. We offer a wide range of dental and orthodontic services for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment for your child, feel free to reach out online or call us today for information or assistance. Telephone: (781) 767-7200.