School is out! It’s the time of year that so many kids have been waiting for. The sun is shining, they can spend more time with their friends, and there is more time for snacks throughout the day. However, not all snacks are good for your little one’s smile. Your dentist for children in Pelham shares some of the best snack options out there that your kids can enjoy during the summer without you having to worry about the health of their teeth.
What Are the Best Snacks for Your Kids?
Stocking up on healthy snacks can do wonders for the oral health of your entire family. Here are some of the best foods that you should consider keeping in your pantry:
- Apples: This high fiber fruit is great at keeping teeth clean. It helps to increase saliva production which neutralizes harmful acids in the mouth. Try cutting them up in slices to make them easier to eat.
- Carrots: This vegetable is also high in fiber which makes it ideal for a healthy smile. They have high levels of plaque-attacking keratin and vitamin A. Baby carrots and dip is a great snack for the whole family.
- Nuts: They are full of all sorts of benefits for your kids smiles. Nuts like almonds, Brazil nuts, and cashews help to fight off tooth decay and peanuts are a great source of calcium and vitamin D. Salted almonds make a good alternative to starchy potato chips any day!
- Cheese: Dairy products are beneficial to dental health. This is because the calcium and protein work together to strengthen tooth enamel. Try cheese sticks for on the go or softer cheeses on apples.
- Smoothies: The great thing about smoothies is that you can add whatever you want. Use whole fruit and calcium-rich milk or yogurt and you’re good to go. If you’re feeling extra healthy, add some fresh spinach.
Which Summer Snacks Should Your Kids Avoid?
- Barbeque Sauce: Yes, it is delicious, but it often contains ingredients like sugar and high fructose corn syrup. This doesn’t need to be cut out completely, but it is a good idea to limit the amount of this sauce that your kids consume.
- Sports Drinks: They are quenching on a hot day, but they contain high levels of both sugar and acid which is a terrible combination for the health of your child’s teeth. These beverages can eventually lead to enamel erosion and tooth decay.
- Corn on the Cob: This common side dish can be served in many different ways, but eating it off the cob can damage your child’s teeth and is a nightmare for kids with braces. It’s best to cut it off the cob before serving.
With all of the fun activities you have planned, your children certainly don’t want to be spending time getting dental work done. Stock up on some of these tooth-friendly snacks to help prevent against future dental problems for your kids.
About the Author
Dr. Amelia Albright is a pediatric dentist serving children in the Pelham, NH area. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Tufts University and completed advanced specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at New York University. She has experience treating children with special needs and is passionate about community service. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (603) 635-1166.