Foods and drinks that are harmful to children’s teeth

Carbonated drinks

Drinks such as soda contain carbonic acid, which affects tooth enamel by reducing the pH level in the mouth, causing tooth enamel erosion and tooth decay. Children’s teeth are also sensitive to foods that are too hot or too cold. After consuming carbonated drinks, children should rinse their mouth with water and after an hour they can brush their teeth.

Bottled fruit juice

Bottled fruit juices often contain sugar, which is not beneficial for oral health. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your child’s mouth, which produces acid. Like soda, this acid also erodes tooth enamel, increasing the risk of dental problems.

Parents should encourage their children to drink filtered water, milk or pure fresh fruit juice. If your child drinks sugary drinks, have them rinse their mouth with water to remove excess sugar from their teeth and reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Citrus fruits

Lemons and oranges bring many health benefits but are not good for teeth. Like soda, citrus fruits are high in acid, which can damage tooth enamel. If your baby likes to eat citrus fruits, parents can make them into drinks. Then, the child uses a straw to avoid direct contact with the teeth. After that, the child needs oral hygiene to remove accumulated acid.

Pickles

Pickles are made from vinegar, brine and other spices. High amounts of acid in food have the ability to break down tooth enamel, creating conditions for bacteria to attack the teeth.

French fries

This snack contains starch that will convert into sugar when eaten. French fries easily accumulate between teeth, nourishing bacteria, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Parents should let children use baby toothpaste to remove food stuck between teeth.

Popcorn

Popcorn is a healthy choice that contains no oil, butter or salt. Foods high in fiber and rich in beneficial antioxidants. However, this dish can cause teeth problems when your baby does not clean their teeth properly. Parents instruct their children to brush their teeth and floss after eating popcorn so that no food debris remains between their teeth.

Children should avoid chewing hard objects such as rocks or biting pens because they can crack their teeth. Parents should take their children for regular dental check-ups to early detect gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth decay… Children should also have their tooth structure and jaw structure checked and take measures when there are problems. .