Great dental care starts at an early age, and it doesn’t end with simple teeth brushing. Your diet also affects your teeth. Dentists recommend teaching your kids to enjoy foods that promote optimal dental health at an early age to ensure they continue eating those foods into adulthood. 

S. Jill Spurlin, D.M.D., in Enterprise, AL, provides family dentistry and has years of experience helping whole families achieve bright, healthy smiles. She offers these five foods your kids can eat for healthy teeth:

1. Dairy

Calcium plays a major role in keeping teeth strong. Your kids can reap the benefits of this nutrient by drinking milk, eating low-sugar yogurt and eating cheese. These tasty foods also have vitamin D, which may help prevent tooth decay.

2. Xylitol Gum

Instead of chewing sugary gum, dentists encourage your kids to enjoy gums made with xylitol. This sweetener can prevent tooth decay by killing off bacteria that promote erosion. Plus, the act of chewing will make your kids’ mouths produce saliva which helps clean their teeth as they chew.

3. Nuts

If you’re looking for healthy snacks to give your kids after school, look no further than nuts. Peanuts, cashews, walnuts and almonds all contain calcium and fiber that can clean teeth. Nuts also have proteins that keep your kids feeling full longer, preventing them from binge eating on sugary snacks that may hasten tooth decay.

4. Tea

Many people are already aware that green tea contains antioxidants that can boost the immune system. However, it also has polyphenols. These micronutrients suppress and kill bacteria that may become plaque or acid that can damage tooth enamel. Your kids can enjoy green tea hot with a little lemon, or cold with some frozen berries.

5. Raw Vegetables

Vegetables that have not been cooked offer incredible nutritional value. Plus, when your kids enjoy their carrot and pea snack, their careful chewing will help clean their mouths of plaque. Make sure your family chews thoroughly so they can easily digest the veggies and reap the full benefits of their fibrous dental cleaning power.

The next time you head to the grocery store, stock up on some of the foods above to help your kids enjoy strong, healthy teeth. And don’t forget to schedule regular dentist appointments with S. Jill Spurlin, D.M.D. Call the office at (334) 475-2624 for scheduling and to gain more information about teeth cleaning, preventative care and tooth extractions.