Many kids like sugary foods and candies, and as a parent, it can be challenging to deny them what they want. However, saying no occasionally will help them avoid toothaches, cavities, and other dental issues that will diminish their smiles. Here are a few tips to helping your kids maintain their pearly whites while allowing them to enjoy the treats they want.

3 Ways to Balance Sugary Foods & Oral Health

1. Avoid Sweet Snacking

If your children snack on sugary foods throughout the day, their teeth will remain in constant contact with cavity-causing sweeteners. The best time to let them indulge is after meals. This is because their mouths are already producing saliva, which is needed to wash away residual sugars and prevent toothaches.

2. Serve Treats With Water

Always give your kids something to wash away the sugars. Water is an ideal beverage to provide since fruit juices and sodas will add additional sweeteners to their mouths. To make the drink more appealing to your little ones, add ice cubes or give them a colored, curly straw.

3. Offer Gum

When your youngster craves something sweet, offer them chewing gum instead of candy. Gnawing on the gum stimulates saliva production, helping to remove food particles from between their teeth. Additionally, the xylitol in gum provides a satisfying sweetness without fueling cavity-causing bacteria. Always give them a sugar-free variety to avoid coating their teeth with unnecessary sugars.

If your little ones have a toothache from eating too many sweets, turn to Nizich Family Dental in Juneau, AK. These professionals will perform thorough cleanings and exams to determine if your kids have any cavities. If additional treatment is needed, like a filling or root canal, they’ll perform the procedure promptly to restore their smiles. Get more information about their services online, or call (907) 789-7001 to make an appointment.