Fruit juice is one way to get your children to consume vitamins and minerals they need. However, it can have a negative impact on their teeth and overall oral health. Here's what you should know about dental care and fruit juice for your kids.   

How Juice Affects Children's Teeth

Due to the high sugar content of fruit juice consuming too much of it can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Without high-quality dental care, these conditions might cause premature tooth loss, which leads to crowding. 

Fiber aids the body's absorption process. Juicing breaks down the fiber, which increases the effect of the sugar in the fruit. This can make the juice more addictive and leave your children feeling less full. 

Eating whole fruit gives your kids fiber, which improves digestion and increases immunity from illnesses. When your kids drink juice, they miss out on the benefits of consuming whole fruit, such as better digestion and more immunity. 

Additionally, without the fiber, your kids won't get all the nutrients and vitamins that the fruit provides. This impacts the development of your child's baby teeth and permanent teeth. 

Healthy Alternatives to Fruit Juice

Consider finding alternatives that provide the same nutritional benefits as fruit juice without damaging your children's teeth. Some examples of healthy choices include coconut water with no added sugar, and smoothies made with fresh fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and tomatoes. 

Coconut water is full of essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, and electrolytes. It’s an excellent replacement for sugary sports drinks. Water, milk, and caffeine-free herbal teas, with flavors such as peppermint or chamomile, appeal to kids and make dental care visits even more fun.

If you want dependable high-quality dental care for your children, visit the offices of William B. Collier Jr., DMD. This dentist serves patients throughout Enterprise, AL, offering evaluations, procedures, and treatment to ensure your family’s teeth and gums stay healthy. Dr. Collier's dental care services range from general teeth cleaning and whitening to comprehensive cavity treatments and dental crowns. Visit the website for more information. Call (334) 347-5026 to schedule an appointment.