{"id":510,"date":"2023-01-23T00:53:00","date_gmt":"2023-01-23T00:53:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.midlandkidsdentist.com\/blog\/?p=510"},"modified":"2023-01-30T00:53:58","modified_gmt":"2023-01-30T00:53:58","slug":"3-healthy-snacks-for-kids-to-prevent-cavities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.midlandkidsdentist.com\/blog\/3-healthy-snacks-for-kids-to-prevent-cavities\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Healthy Snacks for Cavity-Free Smiles"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"ChildrenTooth decay is the most chronic health condition for children, despite being preventable. In fact, cavities are more common than childhood asthma. Brushing and flossing can safeguard your little one\u2019s smile, but is there more you could do to protect their teeth<\/a> from decay? Yes! The foods and drinks your child consumes can harm or help their smile. Don’t let sugary or starchy snacks come back to haunt their oral health. Here are 3 healthy alternatives to make their teeth more resistant to decay.<\/p>\n

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Healthy Snacks for Cavity Prevention <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Children love cookies, chips, and crackers, but sugars and starches feed cavity-causing bacteria that can erode their enamel. Instead, choose snacks that promote healthy teeth, like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Low-Fat Dairy Products<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cheese and yogurt contain calcium, which is vital for strong teeth and bones. They also contain phosphorus and vitamin D to support their dental health. Cheese stimulates saliva production to rinse away food particles from their teeth. Choose low-fat dairy products to satisfy their hunger while promoting a healthy mouth and body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Fresh Fruit and Vegetables <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fruit and vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals to support your child’s development. Although fruit contains natural sugars, they are better for your little one’s smile than cookies and candy. Crunchy vegetables and fruit also act as scrub brushes for their teeth. They will help remove cavity-causing residue to keep their mouth clean between brushing and flossing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Tap Water<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fruit juice, soda, and sports drinks can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to your child\u2019s dental health. It’s best to encourage water whenever possible, especially from the tap. Many public water sources contain added fluoride, which is known as “nature\u2019s cavity fighter.” Water will promote strong enamel and clean their mouth every time they take a sip. Not to mention, it will keep them hydrated and prevent a dry mouth to reduce oral bacteria growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Promote a Cavity-Free Smile<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although cavities are common, your child\u2019s smile doesn’t have to become a victim of decay by following a few tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n