You discourage candy consumption and steer clear of hard foods like jawbreakers, but what else is your child eating that could damage their smile? Although many parents focus on removing sugary snacks, there are other foods (and drinks) that can be incredibly detrimental to healthy teeth. Below, the kids' dentists at Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage, AK, share three foods that children should avoid to protect their teeth and begin healthy habits from a young age.

3 Foods Your Kids’ Dentist Wants Them to Avoid for a Healthier Smile

1. Soda

When your little one sips soda, the citric acid in those bubbly drinks is softening their dental enamel. Over time, soda drinkers can develop more prominent decay because their teeth simply can’t fend off damage as they should. If your child likes soda, try not to keep it in the house or only allow it for special occasions. 

2. Crackers 

The oral bacteria inside of your child’s mouth relies on simple sugars and starches to multiply, which is why letting your little one munch away on crackers throughout the day is never a good idea. Starchy foods tend to stick to the teeth and speed plaque formation, so suggest freshly cut veggies instead. 

3. Dried Fruit

Fruit leather and fruit snacks can seem like a healthier option, but those dehydrated fruits are packed with naturally-occurring sugar that can do as much damage as candy. Additionally, since dried fruit can be hard to chew through, it can also put your child at a higher risk for dental damage and a trip to the kids’ dentist. Try to offer your little one freshly cut fruit slices instead of packets of dried fruit leather or fruit snacks. In addition to enjoying a little extra hydration, they can also enjoy some much-needed fiber. 

It isn’t always easy to decide what to feed your little one, which is why the team at Alaska Dentistry for Kids is there to help. In addition to talking with you about your child’s teeth, this team of kids’ dentists can chat with your little one about how to make healthy decisions that will improve their smiles. To learn more about this practice, visit them online or call (907) 274-2525.