While it's all right for kids to have sugary treats on occasion, most dentists recommend limiting how much processed sugar they eat. Instead of serving baked goods and candy, focus on offering healthy treats full of nutrients for good dental care and overall health. Here are some of the best choices available.

What Snacks Should You Pack for Your Children?

1. Dairy Products

Tooth enamel is made up of minerals, mostly calcium and fluoride. Bacteria and acids wear enamel down over time, which puts your little ones at risk for decay and cavities. Soda is a common culprit.

Dairy products, including yogurt, cheese, and milk, contain calcium. These snacks will protect tooth enamel and help prevent cavities. 

2. Veggies 

Vegetables contain lots of water, fiber, and vitamins, helping with digestion and improving the function of systems throughout the body.

Crunchy foods are especially beneficial for oral health because they naturally remove plaque. Combine celery with nut butter or hummus and you’ll have a tasty, protein-packed snack.

3. Frozen Fruits

If your kids love sugary ice cream, you can give them the flavors they crave while still ensuring they get plenty of vitamins.

Insert a stick into half a banana and freeze it, or freeze a handful of grapes. You can also make smoothies with frozen fruit, or puree them and pour them into ice trays and ice pop molds.

The dentists at La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry in Wisconsin care about your children’s oral health. Dr. Jon Hanks is a specially trained pediatric dentist, so he and his team have the training and experience necessary to make every visit easy and fun for your little ones. They also focus on educating kids so they can make good dental care choices. Learn more about their practice online or call (608) 782-4054 to schedule an appointment.