Good oral health is a consequence of good nutrition. This is as important as brushing and flossing your child’s teeth as a way of ensuring that the child has the best health. Pediatric dentists in Edmonton suggest a good diet can help to avoid cavities, gum diseases, and other problems of the mouth. It is important to know how certain types of food affect teeth in order to make the right decisions concerning your child’s dental health.
How Diet Affects Your Child’s Oral Health
Diet plays a big role in the overall oral health of the child. Some foods and drinks can harm the teeth while others can help in the health of the teeth. While sugary foods and acidic drinks can cause erosion of the enamel and hence increase the incidence of cavities and infections, a diet rich in vitamins and minerals can only help to make the teeth and gums stronger.
What Causes Poor Oral Health in Children?
Several factors contribute to poor oral health in children, including:
- Frequent Sugar Consumption – They create a perfect environment for bacteria to live in when they consume sugary snacks and drinks.
- Acidic Foods and Drinks – Some foods that are good for the body in other ways like fruits, sodas, and fruit juices can cause the enamel on the teeth to wear away.
- Lack of Essential Nutrients – It is important that children get enough calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus as these are important for the health of teeth. If they don’t, they will decay or have gum problems.
- Poor Hydration – Water is a solvent for food and can help remove food and bacteria from the mouth, which prevents plaque from forming.
Best Foods for Your Child’s Dental Health
A nutritious diet is key to maintaining strong teeth and gums. Here are some of the best foods for oral health:
1. Dairy Products
Milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium and phosphates, which strengthen tooth enamel. Cheese also helps neutralize acids in the mouth, reducing the risk of cavities.
2. Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally by stimulating saliva production, which washes away bacteria and food particles.
3. Lean Proteins
Chicken, fish, and eggs are packed with phosphorus, an essential mineral that helps repair and strengthen enamel.
4. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds provide essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which support strong teeth.
5. Water
Encourage your child to drink water throughout the day. Water rinses the mouth, prevents dry mouth, and helps maintain a balanced pH level.
Worst Foods for Your Child’s Teeth
To protect your child’s oral health, limit the consumption of these foods:
1. Sugary Snacks
Candy, cookies, and sweetened cereals contribute to cavities and plaque buildup.
2. Sticky Foods
Dried fruits, caramel, and gummy candies stick to teeth, making it harder for saliva to wash away bacteria.
3. Carbonated Drinks
Sodas and sports drinks are loaded with sugar and acids that erode enamel.
4. Citrus Fruits
While fruits like oranges and lemons are healthy, excessive consumption can weaken enamel due to their high acidity.
5. Starchy Foods
Chips, white bread, and pasta break down into sugar, which can lead to cavities.
How Do You Prevent a Child from Getting a Tooth Infection?
Preventing tooth infections starts with good oral hygiene and proper nutrition. Here are some tips to help keep your child’s teeth healthy:
- Encourage Brushing and Flossing – Make sure your child brushes twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flosses daily.
- Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks – Reduce the intake of candies, sodas, and other sugar-laden snacks.
- Regular Dental Checkups – Visiting a pediatric dentistry near you every six months ensures early detection of potential issues.
- Provide a Balanced Diet – A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients helps strengthen teeth and gums.
- Drink More Water – Water helps wash away bacteria and keeps the mouth hydrated.
Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy
Regular dental check-ups are important for the general health of your child’s mouth. Westside Family Dental has expertise in pediatric dentistry for children of all ages. Make an appointment now with our expert dentist in West Edmonton and help your child have a healthy and bright smile!