Best Fruits and Veggies For Your Child's Teeth

As children’s teeth develop, there are many issues that can arise. Pediatric dentists have the knowledge and experience to take care of your child’s smile and diagnose and treat common concerns. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children see a dentist when their first tooth appears or when they turn one year old. This is about the time teeth begin appearing, and it’s important to monitor their oral health at this time.

Did you know that what your child consumes also affects oral health? So it is essential to bring changes in their diet by including the food items below:

Apples

Apples are a crunchy, sweet snack that your child may enjoy. However, it is important to remove the skin before eating the apple. The skin has more sugar and acid than the inside, which can lead to tooth decay.

Strawberries

Strawberries contain malic acid, which is a natural astringent that can remove surface stains from teeth. They’re also rich in vitamin C, which naturally strengthens tooth enamel. Plus, the fibrous nature of strawberries helps stimulate saliva production, which will help wash away food particles and bacteria.

Oranges

Oranges are high in vitamin C and calcium, which both help strengthen tooth enamel. Additionally, the fibrous texture of the fruit can clean your child’s teeth when chewed. The acid in the fruit can also clean your child’s teeth, or if you opt to avoid the acid, rinse your child’s teeth with water after their snack.

Carrots

Carrots are crunchy, sweet, and full of fiber, which means they’re a great snack. But they’re also full of vitamin A and beta-carotene, two compounds that help protect enamel. The natural sugars in carrots help bacteria in the mouth form less plaque, and the fiber helps to sweep it away.

Celery

Celery has many benefits for your oral health. Sometimes it’s referred to as nature’s toothbrush because of the ways it scrapes your teeth clean. Celery contains a lot of water and fiber, which makes it great for staying hydrated and for stimulating saliva production in your mouth. Saliva is the body’s natural defense against cavity-causing bacteria.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A, a nutrient that is good for your child’s teeth. Vitamin A, when taken with calcium, helps your child’s teeth from strong enamel.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a member of the healthy green vegetable family. Eating it raw is not only delicious, but it is also great for your teeth. Broccoli contains calcium, which helps teeth retain their strength. It also fights off plaque buildup and helps prevent cavities. If your children like broccoli, have them eat it raw with dip. If your child does not like broccoli, you can have them try eating it raw with ranch dip.

To know more, call us at (907) 336-1234 and schedule an appointment with the dentist.