As children grow up, the American Dental Association (ADA) advises parents to pay close attention to what kinds of products their children are eating and drinking. It's no secret that the nutrition we take in not only affects our general health, but our oral health as well. In addition, the American Dental Association warns that a diet high in sugar may very well be cause for significant damage not only to children's teeth, but to adults teeth as well. Sugar-coated teeth become a breeding ground for bacteria; which then produces acid. It is this acid that eats away at the enamel on our teeth.
In order to reduce the risks of childhood tooth decay, the ADA gives the following suggestion's:
- Limit between-meal snacks as much as possible. If a snack is warranted, make a selection that is low in fat, sugar, and starch;
- Allow children to chew only sugarless gum. Chewing sugarless gum after eating can have a positive impact because it increases saliva production, which helps rinse away food and decay-producing acid;
- Encourage youngsters to opt for water or low-fat milk, rather than soft drinks;
- Make sure that children brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss nightly;
- Schedule biannual dental checkups for children and adolescents."
Source: Health Net
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