Your Checklist for Healthy Mouths
A healthy lunch and snack should definitely be part of your child's regular eating habits. A good nutrition program for your child includes:
choosing foods from all four food groups
cheese, yogurt and milk, which all contain calcium, a mineral that strengthens teeth and can help prevent cavities
smart snacking between meals
drinking milk, water or pure fruit juices instead of so-called "sport" or carbonated drinks
cutting down on sugar
a visit to your dentist every six months
Reduce Your Child’s Sugar Intake
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that feed on sugar from foods and produce acid that harms teeth. All foods and drinks, except water, can contribute to tooth decay in this way. Here are a few tips to cut down on sugar:
make unsweetened, unflavoured milk or water your first choices
try fresh or unsweetened canned fruits and vegetables; whole grain crackers and breads when selecting a snack
limit carbonated drinks and sweetened fruit juices, as they contain sugar and acids that cause tooth decay.
choose fruit for dessert
save sweets for mealtimes, when they are less likely to harm your child’s teeth and when saliva flow is greater
Smart Snacking
Growing children and teens often need more than three meals a day. Smart snacking will ensure they have the energy they need to keep pace with their busy schedules
limit the number of times a day your child eats or drinks sugars
avoid sugary treats that stay in the mouth for a long time, like hard candy or lollipops
avoid soft, sticky sweets that get stuck in your child’s teeth
serve sweets for dessert while there is still plenty of saliva in your child’s mouth to wash away the sugars
drink tap water between meals
serve vegetables, fruit and cheese for snacks
have children brush their teeth at least twice a day and before going to bed
Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski and Associates – Brampton Dentists
905-458-6620