Nutrition and Healthy Foods Guide
Healthy Eating Habits For kids, Aurora CO
Everyone knows that a balanced, nutritious diet is essential to healthy living. But did you know healthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth?
Eating patterns and food choices play an important role in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones, and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet.
You may eat with your eyes first, but your mouth, teeth, and gums are more than just tools for eating. They’re essential for chewing and swallowing—the first steps in the digestion process. Your mouth is your body’s initial point of contact with the nutrients you consume.
So what you put in your mouth impacts not only your general health but also that of your teeth and gums. In fact, if your nutrition is poor, the first signs often show up in your oral health.
What should my child eat to protect their oral health?
Individual nutrition and calorie needs depend on:
- age
- gender
- level of physical activity
- and other health factors
Children should eat a variety of healthy foods, but a healthy and balanced diet should include: fruits and vegetables, grains, dairy, and lean protein.
However, many snacks that children eat can lead to cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chances of tooth decay.
How long food remains in the mouth also plays a role. For example, hard candy and breath mints stay in the mouth a long time, which causes longer acid attacks on tooth enamel. If your child must snack, choose nutritious foods such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt, and low-fat cheese, which are healthier and better for children’s teeth. And as always, brush after each meal.
Let Us Help You Introduce Your Child To Oral Hygiene
Our mission is to create a passion for good oral hygiene and for visits to the dentist within kids of all ages. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule your visit!
Can my child’s diet affect their dental health?
Absolutely. It is important that you initiate a balanced diet for your child and family so that their teeth develop appropriately. In addition, this will positively affect healthy gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Please note that a diet high in sugar and other forms of carbohydrates may increase the probability of tooth decay.
How do I create a diet that is safe for my child’s teeth?
Choose a balanced diet for your family. Pay attention to how often starchy foods are eaten. These types of foods include bread, pasta, potato chips, etc.
In addition, pay attention to sugar consumption. Sugar is found in more than just candy, and all types of sugars can promote tooth decay. For example, most milk-based products contain sugar. A peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a favorite for bag lunches. Unfortunately, it includes sugar not only in the jelly but also in the peanut butter. For less sugar and more flavor and nutrients, try replacing jelly with fresh fruit slices (apples, pears, or bananas) or chopped dried fruit.