A healthy set of teeth mirrors the overall health of your child. Moreover, because children take in nutrients from the primary foods that they eat, providing all of the nutrients that they need in their diet can go a long way to maintaining good health. Not only will they have strong bodies, but they will develop a strong set of teeth that grow with them as they age. Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry has always been keen on providing children and parents with the appropriate information about how the foods they eat affect their dental health. Targeting education as well as an effective prevention plan, we provide San Diego residents with dental care for infants and children.
Strong Bones Means a Strong Set of Teeth
Your teeth are part of your bone structure, and just like your bones, they also need the right nourishment to keep them strong. Children, especially, need to have a good source of calcium and protein to make their teeth stronger. Drinking milk helps to fight off tooth decay and prevent gum disease from occurring. Getting a daily dose of milk is not the only way to prevent dental problems from happening, but getting nourishment from foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals can help maintain the resistance of your body to certain illnesses and dental issues. Fruits and vegetables rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals help keep your body resistant to diseases. Foods with high contents of phosphorus and protein are also helping to make your bones and teeth stronger. They contain the essential building blocks that help your body gain bone and muscle density, something which a growing child needs.
Fluoride Strengthens Your Bone and Teeth
Fluoride is one of the chemical elements responsible for the dwindling cases of dental decay among children. Since its discovery in the early 19th century, it has given many children enough support to combat the painful occurrences of tooth decay and other dental problems. This naturally occurring element can be found in water supplied by your local municipality, some foods rich in fluoride, and other products that can be purchased, such as toothpaste or mouthwash. Fluoride is a very good element in the sense that it ensures your teeth are protected from dental caries formation and plaque invasion.
Avoid Sugary, Sticky, and Chewy Foods
One cause of having dental problems is when a child consumes too many sugary and unhealthy foods. Sweets and other sugary drinks cause tooth degradation because of bacteria that quickly invade the teeth. When your child consumes too much of these sugary substances, make sure they brush their teeth or drink water to remove excess sugar from getting in between the teeth and out of the mouth. It is also important to give these types of foods as desserts after a meal rather than as snacks throughout the day. This is to ensure their bodies are provided with the nutrients it needs and prevents them from overindulging on these poor food choices. Brushing their teeth after dessert is a great way to keep their teeth and gums healthy. It also teaches them great habits that follow them into adulthood.
For more information on foods that are not just good for your child's health but are also good for your child's teeth, contact Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry today at (316) 202-9629.