For Parents
What About Diet?
Eating a balanced diet will help your child have healthy teeth. Dietary habits are established in the first few years of life. The diet should include a variety of foods such as fruits and vegetables, cereals, dairy products and meats.
Snacks should be low in sugar and not sticky foods that can remain in the mouth for long periods of time. Examples of unhealthy snacks are sticky candies, raisins, soft drinks and potato chips. Limit the amount of sugar and the frequency of snacking. More frequent snacking leads to more tooth decay. All children will eat unhealthy snacks occasionally but with proper hygiene, cavities can be prevented.
Visit the USDA Food and Nutrition Center for nutrition information.
Check with your pediatrician or dentist about fluoride supplements. If there is not adequate fluoride in your water supply your child may need a prescription for fluoride drops. Use fluoride toothpaste in small amounts. Too much fluoride can cause white spots or stains in the enamel.
