How can I avoid cavities and grow healthy?

How can I avoid cavities and grow? Good nutrients. Child nutrition is an important topic that contributes to healthy teeth, bones, learning and development. Calcium is a very much needed nutrient that helps the body develop healthy teeth and bones. Calcium is found in milk. However, many children have a milk or lactose allergy. Some alternate foods include sardines, tofu, oatmeal, calcium fortified juices. Calcium supplements can also be a beneficial addition.

Protein is a necessary macronutrient for growth. Although a common way to get protein is through meat; some alternate foods for vegetarians include rice, beans, peanut butter, eggs, and milk. Proteins can help you feel full longer, and this helps kids not crave as many sugary snacks.

Sugary snacks, or highly processed carbohydrates, contribute to the formation of cavities. Streptococcus mutans, is a bacteria that breaks sugar down and the acidic product causes cavities by creating an acidic environment in the mouth. When the mouth is acidic, teeth demineralize, and lose their hardness. Any food that contributes to the formation of cavities/caries is known as cariogenic. And there are some anticariogenic foods. Aged cheddar cheese, and Swiss cheese are anticariogenic. Some proteins also balance the acidity in the mouth, thereby reducing the risk of cavities.

It is important to drink water in addition to getting good nutrient. Babies don’t need water in the first 6 months. However, after 6 months, it is best to keep kids hydrated, and drinking water contributes to a stable pH, environment in the mouth that prevents the demineralization of teeth. Remineralization of teeth occur at a pH above 5.5. The neutral pH of water at 7 helps contribute to a healthy mouth and microflora.

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for healthy teeth and bones, and can also be found in cheese, egg, dairy, or even supplements. Broccoli, kale, carrots, and other vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals that keep kids healthy, strong, and alert.

At Museum Smiles Dentistry, we discuss ways to maintain your oral and overall health. The mouth is the gateway to the body and a healthy mouth contributes to your wellness. Contact us to schedule a comprehensive oral exam. We are located within a few minutes of Downtown Fort Worth, and see patients from six months of age. We proudly serve patients from Arlington, Keller, and Fort Worth Areas.