If all you hear from your child is how much they want sugary and starchy snacks, it might be time to throw out the “bad” and replace these snacks with healthier alternatives. Cavity-causing foods in Garland are everywhere and can often be hard to identify. Cookies, candy, chips, and crackers are not the only items that can cause problems for your child’s oral health. Read on to discover the potential issues your little one can experience if positive eating habits are not practiced as well as which healthier snack options will prove beneficial for their smile.
The Bad News About Sugar and Starch
It’s easy to stroll through the grocery store and allow the bright colors and fun characters to lure you in. Their boxes claim the goodies inside are healthy and fat-free but when looking at the nutrition label, you’ll find the grams of sugar and carbohydrates are through the roof. While your child might beg or plead for these particular snacks, you could be putting them at serious risk for cavities.
Sugars and starches, when consumed in moderation, are not too bad for a child’s teeth. That is as long as you make sure they properly brush and floss after eating. However, when these ingredients become staples of their diet, you will likely find yourself spending a lot of time at the dentist’s office. Why? Because sugar and starch cause bacteria and plaque to form, leading to worn tooth enamel and cavity formation. And because young teeth are so vulnerable to this particular problem, avoiding necessary treatment can set them up for many difficulties once their permanent teeth erupt.
Healthy Snacks for Your Child to Enjoy
To ensure they don’t fall victim to cavities or any other oral health problems, make sure you’re keeping your cabinets, pantry, and refrigerator stocked with healthy alternatives, such as:
- Celery with peanut butter
- Nuts
- Cottage cheese
- Cheese
- Vegetables and fruits
- Smoothies (with fresh fruits and veggies, not fruit juice)
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Raisins
- Lean proteins
- Pickles
- Carrot sticks and hummus
- Energy balls
- Whole grains
- Olives
While these are just a few of the many healthy snacks available for you to make at home for your little one, you can trust they will strengthen tooth enamel, improve gum health, and provide vital nutrients and minerals your child needs to thrive.
It’s okay to let your child enjoy a sweet treat now and then, just be mindful of how much they consume and make healthier choices more prominent in your household.
About the Author
Dr. Adam Preece is a board-certified pediatric dentist for kids in Garland who earned his dental degree at The Ohio State University. Passionate about young, growing smiles, he completed a two-year residency in pediatric dentistry at Women and Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, NY. He is currently a staff member at Children’s Health Dallas/Plano. Dr. Preece and his colleagues believe in starting good oral hygiene habits at an early age as well as adopting healthy food choices. If you need help to ensure your child is getting the appropriate nutrients for stronger teeth and gums, visit our website or call (972) 309-9992.