Food is a major factor when it comes to our overall health. And that goes for your children’s oral health, too! The type of food that your children consume on a regular basis will directly affect the condition of their teeth and gums, which is why it’s essential to be mindful of what they’re eating, especially during those initial years of development. To learn more about the type of foods for children that can benefit their oral health, read on.
Nuts and Protein
Protein is important for boosting the strength of tooth enamel in kids. Some good sources of protein can include lean meats like turkey, fish, and chicken. Nuts and natural, low-sugar peanut butter are also good choices that can make for tasty and healthy snacks.
Crunchy, Raw Veggies and Fruit
Fruits and veggies should be included in every meal that your children consume, especially raw, crunchy ones. Items that are high in water like celery, cucumbers, and melons help flush out the mouth and keep food particles to a minimum, which keep the teeth and gums clean. So try to introduce your kids to more fruits and veggies throughout the day. Starting them off at an early age will get them to enjoy these more easily as they continue to grow.
Full-Fat Dairy
Calcium is an essential mineral to help keep our teeth nice and strong. Some calcium-rich foods for children that benefit their oral health can include aged cheeses like cheddar, along with full-fat milk, yogurt, and even broccoli. These can help introduce more calcium into their daily diet while increasing the production of saliva which also helps remove food particles that get caught in between teeth.
Unsweetened Food
Sugar is one of the most damaging items for our teeth. Bacteria thrive on sugar, which can accelerate tooth decay. Try to steer clear of giving your child sugar-based foods, especially if it’s in the form of soda. The sugar and acids in pop can be very harmful to both teeth and gums, which is why we recommend reducing (or eliminating) their pop intake as much as possible and introducing them more to water and natural flavours instead.
Diet is directly linked to the condition of our teeth and gums. So always consider what you’re giving your kids during each and every meal, and try to incorporate more of these foods for children that benefit their oral health instead of dishing out items that can contribute to tooth decay.
At Carlingwood Dental, we provide a wide range of dental services for both you and your family. Contact us today to set up an appointment and to learn more about how to keep your children’s oral health in good shape.
