As a parent, you want your kids to eat a healthy, balanced diet. If you’ve been giving them gummy vitamins to ensure they get the right amount of vitamins and minerals, make certain you’re aware of the potential downsides. Here’s what dental care experts want you to know.   

Why Should You Be Careful With Gummy Vitamins?

Taking gummy vitamins is a tasty, convenient way for kids to get supplemental nutrition. However, most have sweeteners that can cause health and dental problems. Sugar-free ones are not necessarily better because the citric acid that replaces sweeteners wears down tooth enamel. Sticky residue can remain on teeth, and if proper dental care isn't practiced, plaque, bacteria growth, and tooth decay are possible.

Additionally, the appealing taste of gummy makes it more likely for children to treat it like candy. They may eat beyond the recommended amount and be at risk for vitamin and mineral overdose. Keep in mind that kids have lower nutritional needs than adults. 

How Can You Minimize the Risk to Teeth?

Gummy vitamins can be beneficial for children with vitamin deficiencies. If your kids are already using them, you can reduce the risks by explaining that vitamin supplements are only for extra nutrients they aren’t getting from food alone. You should also help them form good dental care habits and schedule regular dentist visits. 

Buy regular-flavored gummies instead of sour ones to stay away from citric acid. Give the vitamins before mealtime so that other food can scrape sugar off their teeth. Avoid giving the supplements after brushing because they will make the teeth dirty again. And if your child already eats plenty of nutritious food, ask your doctor if you can skip the vitamins.

To learn more about gummy vitamins, speak with a pediatric dentist at Pedodontic Associates. With three locations on Oahu and Maui, HI, excellent dental care is never far from home. Whether you need a dentist for babies, dental emergency services, or other treatments, the staff at this practice looks forward to providing high-quality care. Schedule an appointment by calling (808) 877-0066 for Kahului, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, or (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu. You can also visit their website to learn more about their services.