Cavities are among the most common health problems in the entire world, and believe it or not, they aren’t limited to only adults – children can just as easily suffer from tooth decay! In fact, research estimates that around 52% of children aged 6 to 8 have had a cavity, with this figure increasing to 57% for teens aged 12 to 19.
But did you know that often, diet plays a monumental role in the formation of cavities? Continue reading to learn more about a few of the most common cavity-causing foods that children tend to eat, along with some other ideas and healthy alternatives to keep their smiles thriving!
3 Incredibly Common Cavity-Causing Foods
Most people think of candy, soda, pastries, and other sugary treats when they envision cavity-causing foods, but these are far from the only items to be mindful of. Here are three lesser-known offenders that can be just as harmful to teeth:
Raisins
Raisins and other dried fruits are technically nutritious, loaded with energy, vitamins, and healthy fiber. Raisins can also boost iron levels and assist with digestion. However, they’re also naturally very high in sugar content, with one small box containing about as much sugar as a soda or candy bar. This means the natural bacteria in your child’s mouth will have plenty of sugar to feast on as the sticky residue becomes stuck on the surfaces of teeth.
Saltines
Saltines aren’t normally deemed “unhealthy,” and they’re considered a staple when paired with a bowl of soup. They aren’t extremely sugary, either – however, they are starchy, and this is where the problem lies. Processed carbohydrates and starches are nearly as detrimental to teeth as sugars are, working in a similar manner to fuel bacterial growth. Plus, when chewed, they’re crushed into a fine powder that can cover every crevice in your child’s mouth and be stubborn to brush off.
Juices & Sports Drinks
Soda is often thought of as the most harmful beverage for teeth, but anything with high amounts of sugar can be problematic, including juices and sports drinks. Even though they’re marketed as healthy, there’s no denying their often-high sugar and acid content. Not to mention, these beverages are also consumed in the middle of the day, far between brushing sessions, giving the sugar more time to wreak havoc on teeth.
Healthy Snacking Benefits Your Child’s Teeth
Your child’s teeth are too important for their future dental development for them to be harmed by sugary and starchy snacks. It goes without saying that the fewer of these foods your child eats, the better – and when it’s possible, you should help them opt for healthier, teeth-friendly choices instead. For example, have them drink water, milk, or other low-sugar beverages in favor of soda, juices, and sports drinks. Likewise, opting for hearty fruits and vegetables over starchy options like chips and crackers can go a long way. Regardless of what they’re snacking on, though, brushing after meals and even simply rinsing between meals can also prove helpful.
About Our Practice
Our team here at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln has served the pediatric dental needs of families in Worcester and the surrounding area for several years. We proudly offer a wide range of services, including kid-friendly cavity solutions like tooth-colored fillings, dental crowns, and more. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment for your child, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 506-8859.