Foods That Help Prevent Tooth Decay
One of the best ways to fight tooth decay is to have your kids consume less sugar and more of those foods that actually help strengthen tooth enamel. Start with calcium-rich foods such as milk products, leafy green vegetables, and calcium-enriched orange juice. Make sure you get enough vitamin D, since vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Cheese is a good choice, since it produces saliva that kills off bacteria.
Crunchy vegetables such as raw carrots and celery help to produce saliva that can actually neutralize the bacteria in your child's mouth. In addition, chewing these foods massages the gums and fruits high in vitamin C (such as kiwis and most citrus fruit) help to keep gums healthy. If opt for fruits that are low in sugar (including apples and pears), you'll be helping keep your child's teeth healthy. Avoid dried fruit as it can stick to the teeth and encourage tooth decay.
And don't forget to have your child drink lots of water. Water helps keep gums hydrated and doesn't introduce excess sugar into your child's mouth.
Tips for Avoiding Tooth Decay
If you want to keep your child's teeth healthy, limit those high sugar snacks. Candy and cookies are obvious sources, but also take a look at those sweetened drinks (such as pop and juice) that can be loaded with sugar. Allow your children to have these things in moderation only. Check labels to find hidden sugars, and avoid anything that has a lot of added sugar.
Starch, which breaks down into simple sugars in the mouth, is also a leading cause of tooth decay. Unfortunately, starch is hard to avoid. Combat this problem by teaching your kids good oral hygiene. Encourage them to brush and floss daily, and make regular trips to the dentist. You might also consider a fluoride rinse that will help rid the mouth of bacteria. Listerine Smart Rinse, but there are other options.
Whatever you do, don't take oral health for granted. Your kids need their teeth, and oral hygiene has to start young for full effect.
