Diet

A healthy balanced diet is important for the normal development of teeth, and is the foundation of future healthy smiles. Frequent consumption of sugars and starches place your child at increased risk of tooth decay. Various foods contain one or more types of sugar, and all types of sugars can promote dental decay. Furthermore, sticky foods have more cavity-causing potential than foods that are more rapidly cleared from the teeth.

Here are some tips:

1.  Ask your pediatric dentist to help you assess your child’s diet.

2.  Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks.

3.  Buy fun foods just for special times.

4.  Limit the number of snack times; choose nutritious snacks.

5.  Do not put your child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.

6.  If your child chews gum, choose one without sugar.