Food for Healthy Teeth
A Guide to Kids’ Tooth Health
Why is sugar bad for my teeth?
Sugar provides the bacteria (germs) in your child’s mouth with fuel, which becomes acid and acid attacks enamel. Damage is dependent on how much sugar they eat and how long it is on the teeth.
What foods should I avoid?
Sugar-rich foods or drinks which stay on the child’s teeth for a long time; such as hard candy, suckers, toffee, raisins, dried fruits, jelly beans, tootsie rolls, potato chips, crackers, sippy cups with sports drinks, sodas, or kool-aid.
What foods or drinks should I choose?
Most fresh fruits or vegetables, meat, cheese, nuts, water, crystal light, low sugar cereal, oatmeal, macaroni and cheese, sugar free gum, cottage cheese or jello.
What causes cavities or sugar bugs?
Cavities, dental caries, or as we say, SUGAR BUGS is the result of complex interactions involving the individual (nutrition, genetics, behavior, race and age) plaque bacteria, saliva flow and composition and the environment. Diet has been linked to an “at risk” status in children around the world. The modern diet of refined carbohydrates, sugars, increased snacking, and decreased water consumption has been directly linked to dental caries upswings since 1937.
How can I take care of my child’s teeth and stop Sugar Bugs?
- Brush and Floss daily
- Visit the dentist for semi annual check-ups and cleanings
- Combine Non-cavity causing foods with sugar foods
- Limit snacking between meals
- Choose healthy snacks
- Increase the amount of water they drink
- Decrease the frequency and amount of sugary drinks
- Use xylitol products
- Use fluoride toothpaste and rinses if approved by your dentist
- Do not chew sugar gum or sip sugary drinks all day long
