How Screen Time And Diet Are Affecting Children’s Oral Health

In today’s world, children have access to many glowing screens that shape their world, including what they eat. While screen time and poor diet might seem inconsequential to oral health as long as they brush and see their pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, they can cause a cascade of dental problems.

Screen Time and Oral Health

Extended screen time can impact medical and dental health in numerous ways, starting with snacking.

Snacking

The more time you spend in front of the screen, the stronger your desire to snack may be. The solution is twofold.

First, break the habit of having something to eat in front of the screen. When you provide your kids with a snack, make them eat it at the dinner table without a screen nearby.

Second, if stopping snacking in front of a screen is problematic, provide them with healthy alternatives in small portions such as whole fruit or nuts. These foods scrap teeth as they bite down, helping to improve their oral health.

Poor Hydration

Kids engrossed in a TV show or playing a video game may not hydrate properly. Poor hydration leads to dry mouth, and saliva plays a critical role in removing debris and bacteria from the mouth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Children watching a screen while they brush may not give it the focus it deserves. They may also be less inclined to brush and floss regularly.

More Serious Oral Health Issues

Excessive screen time can lead to developmental issues with facial muscles and speech. It can also trigger bruxism or teeth grinding. When a child’s focus is so intense on the screen, they may tighten their jaws.

If you have questions about setting screen time limits for your kids, talk to your pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, for insight.