As a child dentist, Allen K. Hirai, DDS knows that it's not always easy to keep kids away from gluten, starch, and sugar, as they are found in most popular kids' treats. However, these foods can negatively impact oral health in children. Your kids need healthy teeth as a child if they're to have healthy teeth as an adult. The pediatric dentist from Pediatric Dentistry Kahala is here with a few reasons why you should monitor your child's consumption of gluten, sugar, and starch.

Here are a few facts about how these can affect your child's oral health:

• Gluten: Gluten has been shown to reduce tooth enamel by creating an immune reaction against enamel-producing proteins. Enamel is necessary for protection against cavities, tooth decay, and tooth loss.
• Sugar: Regular sugar consumption invites the growth of harmful bacteria that wear away at tooth enamel. Plaque feeds on sugar, so if your child consumes sugar often, they'll experience more plaque growth and issues with cavities and toothaches. 
• Starch: Starch is found in carbohydrate-dense foods, but it is mainly an issue when consumed through sugary treats. Plaque bacteria ferments starch sugars and creates acid that decays teeth.

This information from your pediatric dentist should give you a better idea of the effects that gluten, sugar, and starch have on a child's oral health. Be mindful of what your children eat, and make sure they establish strong oral health habits. Visit Pediatric Dentistry Kahala of Honolulu, HI, online to learn more about this excellent dentist for kids. Give them a call at (808) 737-0076 to schedule an appointment today.