Good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy life. Getting your child in the habit of eating right early on is one of the best gifts you can give them. But between busy schedules and picky appetites, it’s not always easy to find quick and easy healthy snacks. Here you’ll find four dentist-approved foods that will help strengthen your child’s teeth and keep their smile bright.

4 Dentist-Approved Snacks for Kids

1. Carrots

Kids may not always be eager to eat their vegetables. However, carrots are packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber, and they’re easily portable, making them a snack-time essential. Crunching on carrots can help clean kids’ teeth; the chewing stimulates saliva production, and since carrots don’t contain much sugar, you won’t have to worry about tooth decay or gum disease. To make carrots more appealing, serve them with healthy toppings like hummus or no-sugar-added plain Greek yogurt.

2. Dairy

Low-fat dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and cream cheese are another snacktime staple for growing kids. Dairy is an excellent source of calcium, a building block of healthy teeth and bones. When selecting items like yogurt or milk-based smoothies, be sure to pick those that contain no added sugar. If your child is lactose intolerant, there are many lactose-free options available. These include milk alternatives fortified with calcium, such as almond, oat, and coconut milk.

3. Apples

You’ve heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The same could almost be said of the dentist. Apples, like carrots, contain high amounts of fiber and their crunchy texture helps to brush off other food particles as you chew. These portable and delicious fruits are also high in nutrients which can help boost your child’s immune system, contributing to better overall health. Serve these alone, or with extra toppings like peanut butter (for an added dose of protein) or cream cheese (for extra calcium).

4. Nuts

Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pecans, and cashews are packed with nutrients. They include minerals like folic acid, iron, and magnesium, which can fight tooth decay. Their crunchy texture also helps whisk away particles as you chew. You can serve nuts by themselves or as part of a homemade trail mix. Just remember to limit ingredients like sugary chocolate candies or sweetened dried fruit. Avoid salted nuts, as these contain high levels of sodium which can dry the mouth and reduce saliva production. 

To ensure your child’s dental health, turn to Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic LLC in Mammoth Spring, AR. Since 1985, they’ve been one of the community’s most trusted family dentists, providing a broad range of services for patients in Hardy, Cherokee Village, Ash Flat, Thayer, Alton, West Plains, MO, and the surrounding areas. Call (870) 625-3262 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about the practice and how they can help your family.