Diet plays a significant role in oral health, as mouth bacteria feed on sugary and starchy foods to produce decay-causing acids and plaque. Fortunately, you can help your children develop mouth-healthy habits for life by providing the right snacks. In addition to encouraging proper oral health practices and taking your kids to a children’s dentist every six months, add these foods to their diets.

Which Foods Do Children’s Dentists Recommend?

1. Fibrous Vegetables With Hummus

Celery, cucumbers, carrots, and other fibrous vegetables naturally scrape teeth of bacteria and plaque and contribute to healthy saliva production. Saliva contains enzymes that neutralize plaque acids while helping flush the mouth of food particles, among other oral health benefits. Provide veggie sticks with homemade hummus for a fiber and protein-heavy snack.

2. Cheese Squares

Cheese neutralizes plaque acids and fortifies tooth enamel thanks to its calcium and phosphate content. The dairy product also helps neutralize beverage acids to further protect teeth. Cut up cheddar, swiss, and other cheese squares to keep your kids satiated until dinnertime, and remember to always use real cheese. American cheese and similar processed products contain sodium and other harmful ingredients.

3. Fresh Pear & Apple Slices

Crunchy fruits such as apples and pears promote saliva production and contain high amounts of water to help wash away mouth bacteria and plaque. The water also dilutes fructose, the natural sugar found in all fruits. Pediatric dentists recommend fresh fruit, as dried fruits feature concentrated sugar that sticks on teeth and promotes decay.

4. Unsalted Seeds

Pumpkin, sunflower, hemp, sesame, and other unsalted seeds provide your children with healthy fat. Seeds are easier to chew than nuts, which minimizes the risk of cracked teeth. They also make ideal additions to DIY trail mixes. Furthermore, nuts contain high amounts of calcium to support tooth enamel and strength.

5. Whole Grain Toast

Whole rather than processed grains contain calcium and magnesium that contribute to healthy teeth. They also contain vitamin C, which protects against cellular damage to support tooth and gum health. Make whole wheat toast even healthier with toppings such as mashed avocado, which is full of vitamin C among other nutrients.

Help keep your kids’ teeth healthy by scheduling routine teeth cleanings and checkups with Dentistry For Kids, the Pearl City, HI, children’s dentist serving Oahu residents. Paul K. Seo, DDS., MS, and his team strive to make young patients as comfortable and excited about their dental health as possible, and they provide care for children of all ages. Call (808) 486-8881 today to schedule an appointment or visit the pediatric dentist online for more about treatments and procedures. Like the Facebook page for additional tips.