Does your child dream of eating chocolate bars and gummy worms all day long? Kids tend to crave candy more than adults. As your child grows, he or she may crave extra sugar during growth spurts, especially when they feel they need more energy.
While there’s nothing wrong with the occasional sweet treat, it’s important to know how excess sugar can harm your child’s teeth. Visit your favorite pediatric dentist in Los Angeles, Dr. Moradzadeh, to learn how sugar can affect your child’s oral health, and how you can help instill positive dental habits that will give your child healthy teeth for a lifetime!
How Does Sugar Impact Teeth?
Our mouths are full of bacteria. When your child eats or drinks things containing a lot of sugar, bacteria in the mouth will use the sugar to stick to the surface of the teeth and feed on it. These destructive bacteria then create acid that wears away tooth enamel and forms plaque. This acid destroys the tooth enamel, which is the protective outer layer of the tooth. Cavities are a bacterial infection created when these acids form a hole in the tooth.
All Candy Isn’t Created Equal
Some parents believe that gummy or sticky fruit snacks are healthy alternatives to candy. But as a general rule of thumb, the stickier the candy, the worse it is for your child’s teeth. Sticky candies leave sugary residue on your teeth long after you are done eating. Avoid giving your child fruit roll ups, taffy, and gummy candies in excess.
Ways to Prevent Decay
- Brush and floss with your child regularly
- Use the amount of fluoride toothpaste appropriate for your child’s age
- Have your child drink plenty of water, which provides a natural defense against plaque
- Say no to fruit juices and soda
Candy is a fun treat for your child. It’s important to limit your child’s intake of sugar and educate them about how to prevent cavities. Be sure to schedule regular checkups and tooth cleanings with your team at Crystal Dental. For further information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Moradzadeh, please call 213.748.8448 or visit www.CrsystalDentalCenters.com to learn more.
