What your child eats has a direct impact on the health of his mouth. That’s why serving balanced meals are one the best ways you can contribute to good oral health. Brushing and flossing help keep teeth and gums healthy and strong, but a balanced diet will help to boost the body’s immune system, leaving your child less vulnerable to oral disease.
At the office of Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, our professional team is committed to pediatric oral health, and wants to play an active role helping your child protect and maintain a healthy set of teeth at every developmental stage.
Eating starchy foods such as crackers, bread, cookies, and candy cause the bacteria in the mouth to feed on it. They then produce acids that attack the teeth for up to 20 minutes or more. Foods that stick to the teeth or are slow to dissolve (such as granola bars and hard candy), and starchy foods (such as potato chips and breads) give the acids more time to work on destroying tooth enamel.
According to the American Dental Association, tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease, but it’s completely preventable by incorporating good brushing and glossing habits, in addition to eating a diet of teeth-friendly foods:
Cheese and yogurt: Studies show that these foods lower the risk of tooth decay. They also contain calcium and protein — nutrients that strengthen tooth enamel.
Leafy greens: Leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, also promote oral health. They’re high in calcium, which builds tooth enamel.
Fruits: Apples in particular might be sweet, but they’re also high in fiber and water. The action of eating an apple produces saliva in the mouth, which rinses away bacteria and food particles.
Carrots and celery: Like apples, carrots and celery are crunchy and full of fiber, increasing saliva production in the mouth, and scraping food particles and bacteria away from the teeth.
Almonds: These nuts are a good source of calcium and protein while being low in sugar.
Committed to your child’s oral health:
At the office of Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, we offer the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care for your child’s dental needs. For more information about the services we provide, give us a call today.
By Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA
November 12, 2019
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