Eating candies and sweets is a quintessential part of childhood and isn’t necessarily unhealthy in moderation. But because these sugary foods can damage baby teeth, food manufacturers have come up with a variety of sugar-free options that use artificial sweeteners instead. Learn more about these substitutes and how they affect your child’s dental health below.

What Are Artificial Sweeteners?

Artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes are in everything from soft drinks and candy to baked goods and juices. They’re offered as a low-calorie replacement for high-calorie sugars that lead to obesity, tooth decay, and other problems when consumed in large quantities. Many manufacturers list them as natural, and they can be derived from a number of sources. Erythritol, hydrogenated starch, neotame, and sucralose are just a few types from the extensive list of substitutes.

Are They Safe for Baby Teeth?

While the lack of sugar in artificially sweetened treats does reduce the chances of sugar-related tooth decay, the chemicals of the refining process can still be harmful to baby teeth. They may soften enamel, and, when combined with acids, still cause the same problems as natural sugar. To get the most accurate advice, speak with your child’s pediatric dentist about preferred foods and beverages.

If you’re unsure about which sweets are all right for your kids’ baby teeth, consult the dental care team at Pedodontic Associates. Committed to educating patients about healthy lifestyle choices alongside their comprehensive pediatric services, they’ve served residents of Oahu and Maui, HI, for over 25 years. They believe in building long-term relationships with their clients and teaching preventative care for a lasting smile. Call (808) 735-1733 to schedule an appointment at their Honolulu office, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului. You can also learn more about their pediatric dentistry services online.