We are taught from an early age to brush our teeth every day, but did you know that brushing isn’t nearly enough to ensure lasting oral health? The truth is, if brushing is the only step you take to protect your teeth, you are still vulnerable to cavities, tooth loss, and gum disease. Nutrition is one of the most powerful tools you have at your fingertips (literally!) to protect your mouth, improve your oral health, and enjoy a white smile for years to come.
If you have children, this lesson is all the more relevant. The nutrition habits that you maintain with your children can significantly influence their ability to sustain strong, healthy teeth through adulthood.
Why Does Nutrition Matter?
Just as much as soda and candy can hurt your teeth, nutrient-dense food choices like vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can actually improve the health of your teeth. By teaching your children to make healthy food choices, you are empowering them to protect their teeth and gums. It’s never too early to start these healthy habits! Even infants can benefit from strategic nutrition choices.
Tips for Your Baby’s Dental Health
Many people don’t realize that a child’s dental health can be influenced long before teeth start to show. Breast milk and iron-fortified infant formula are the only nutrition that a baby needs until the introduction of weaning foods around six months of age. You never need to add sugar to weaning foods like cereal and vegetables, and it’s best to avoid baby foods that are sweetened with added sugar. The natural from of food is best for your curious, growing little one and her teeth.
Tips for Your Child’s Dental Health
After your child turns one, she can safely enjoy many new food choices. Introduce and focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Chicken, eggs, beans, lean beef, oatmeal, brown rice, apples, broccoli, and many other healthy foods can be prepared in ways that your child will truly enjoy.
By ensuring that your child eats healthy and nutritious foods the majority of the day, their teeth will be spared from the harsh sugar and acidity associated with juice, soft drinks, refined foods, and desserts. Such healthy foods will even protect and enhance her oral health by strengthening tooth enamel, fighting bacteria, and encouraging the production of saliva.
Along with strategic eating habits, it’s also essential that you and your children visit a holistic dentist who can provide gentle, conservative, natural, and minimally invasive dental care. At Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry in Clearwater, Florida, Dr. Beata A. Carlson and Associates are committed to helping you and your family enjoy beautiful, bright smiles for years to come. Call 727-888-6523 now to make your appointment.
