Brushing and flossing are essential parts of maintaining your kids’ oral health, but a beautiful smile ultimately starts from within. Food that the family eats has a direct impact on everything from their hair and nails to their tongue and teeth. If you want to ensure a lifetime of beautiful smiles, a family dentist from Bream Family Dental Care in Waynesboro, VA, recommends adding the following items to the grocery list. 

5 Foods That Are Good for Your Kids’ Teeth 

1. Dairy Products

Cheese, yogurt, and milk are all high in calcium and phosphate. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong teeth while the phosphate helps neutralize acid from the other foods you eat, thereby protecting the enamel and preventing decay.

2. Celery

Celery is nature’s floss. Its individual fibers can get wedged between the teeth, scraping away plaque and food debris as you chew. If the kids won’t eat raw celery, consider making them “ants on a log” or serving it alongside their favorite salad dressing. 

3. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A, which contribute to strong tooth enamel and healthy gums. Vitamin A also stimulates the production of saliva, which is essential for a healthy mouth because it rinses away food particles and bacteria after every meal. 

4. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are packed with nutrients, including the vitamins and minerals that contribute to healthy teeth and gums. If your children aren’t too keen on eating salad alongside dinner every night, consider making fruit smoothies every morning, and toss a handful of leafy greens in the blender before turning it on. 

5. Nuts

If your kids play sports and need a healthy snack between school and practice, consider giving them some homemade trail mix. Walnuts, cashews, and almonds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy gums and can even prevent periodontitis. 

Stocking up on the above foods will help maintain your children’s smiles, but it’s also important to schedule regular oral exams for them. If anyone in the family is overdue for teeth cleaning, turn to a family dentist at Bream Family Dental Care in Waynesboro, VA. Led by Dr. Alan Bream, this practice has provided comprehensive oral care for patients of all ages for 25 years. You can reach out and schedule an appointment with a family dentist on their team by visiting their website or by calling (540) 949-7246.