How to Protect Your Child’s Teeth from Sweet Treats

Sugar is a primary cause of childhood cavities. Still, it’s not practical to think you can eliminate all sugar from your child’s life. The key is to find a healthy balance. Along with a balanced diet, there are ways you can protect your kids’ teeth when they do have sugar and minimize the risk of decay.

Eliminate the Obvious Culprits

Removing all the sugar from your child’s diet might not be possible, but you can eliminate some of the foods that tend to cause cavities. Sugary drinks like soda or juice are good examples. Encourage your child to drink water as much as possible. This will flush any sugar they do get from their mouth.

Smart Timing

Time their sugary drinks or treats with a meal. The mouth will produce more saliva during a meal when they are eating a variety of foods, as opposed to just having a sweet treat. The saliva will also help flush the sugar from their mouths.

Make Snacks Crunchy, Not Just Sweet

Certain foods can satisfy that sweet tooth and clean it at the same time. Choose crunchy fruits and vegetables for snacks, like a raw apple or carrot. When they bite down, they scrape their teeth, helping to clean them.

Partner With Your Pediatric Dentist

Think of your pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, as your partner in your child’s oral health strategy. First and foremost, see the dentist regularly. That allows our dental team to examine your child’s teeth and fix any problems like cavities early.

Also, talk to the dentist about treatments that help protect the teeth from sugar. Finally, the dentist and hygienist can help ensure your child is brushing and flossing correctly to keep their teeth at their best, even if they have the occasional sugary treat.

If you have questions about protecting your child against sugar, call your pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, today.