Good diet = healthy teeth

Healthy eating habits leads to healthy teeth.  Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. Children should eat a variety of foods from the five major food groups. Most snacks that children eat lead to cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decay. How long food remains in the mouth also plays a role. For example, hard candy and breath mints stay in the mouth a long time, which cause longer acid attacks on tooth enamel. If your child must snack, chose nutritious foods such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt, and low-fat cheese, which are healthier and better for children’s teeth.

Beware of Sports Drinks!

Due to the high sugar content and acids in sports drinks, they have erosive potential and the ability to dissolve even fluoride-rich enamel, which can lead to decalcification (weakening of enamel/white sports) and cavities. To avoid enamel problems, children should minimize sports drinks and hydrate with water before, during and after sports.

If sports drinks are consumed:

• Reduce the frequency and contact time with your teeth
• Swallow immediately and do not swish them around the mouth
• Neutralize the damaging effects of sports drinks by alternating sips of water with the drink
• Rinse mouthguard only in water
• If possible, brush one hour after drinking any beverage that has sugar or an acid component.