When your kids come home from school after a day of learning and playing, they're sure to want a snack. While it's good to give them some fuel to tide them over until dinner, keep snack time to just 15 minutes and try not to do it more than twice a day. Constant eating keeps saliva, a natural cleansing agent, from doing its job. Healthy snacking isn't just about timing, however; what you feed your kids also matters. Opt for the below treats that dentists recommend.  

What Snacks Are Good for Kids & Their Oral Health? 

1. Vegetable Sticks

Cut up pieces of celery, carrot, and bell pepper for a nutritious treat. Since these crunchy veggies require a lot of chewing, they spur saliva production. Saliva washes away bits of food that attract bacteria and also balances the pH levels of the mouth.

2. Fresh Fruit

Keep kids away from sugar-laden fruit juices and provide them with fresh fruits instead. Eating an apple can even help keep teeth clean, thanks to the natural scrubbing that happens when biting into the fruit. Oranges are full of vitamin C, which nurtures healthy gums according to dentists.

3. Milk

Keep kids away from acidic drinks like soda. The acids damage the protective enamel coating of their teeth, increasing their risk of cavities. Instead, provide your little one with nutritious milk. The calcium in milk fosters healthy bones and teeth.

4. Chips & Hummus

Popcorn is a favorite among little ones, but the husks easily get stuck between teeth, cutting delicate gums. Instead, provide your child with chips and hummus. Whole-grain pita chips are ideal as they don't contain the added sugar of flavored potato chips.

5. Whole-Grain Crackers & Cheese

Like milk, cheese is a dairy product with plenty of calcium that builds strong teeth. Chewing cheese also stimulates saliva flow and may reduce levels of cavity-causing bacteria. The complementing whole-grain crackers are low in sugar and provide some added crunch.

Along with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene habits, your child needs regular dental checkups to maintain their beautiful smile. For a kid-friendly dentist in Kearney, NE, trust Elizabeth A Loseke DDS PC. Dr. Loseke serves patients of all ages, providing gentle care backed by over 20 years of experience. Visit her website for a list of family dentist services, from dental implants to fillings. To book your appointment, call (308) 234-4564.