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Kids must develop good dental habits when they're young to achieve a lifetime of great oral hygiene. Along with daily brushing and flossing, limiting the sweets your child eats will help them maintain a healthy smile. Start by replacing sugary snacks, like cakes and candy, with healthier options—here are a few alternatives your youngster will love.

Which Sweet Treats Won't Harm My Child's Oral Hygiene?

1. Yogurt

This dairy treat contains high amounts of calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel from the inside. It also neutralizes oral acids known to cause cavities and tooth decay.

oral hygiene

When buying yogurt for your children, choose a sugar-free variety to reap as many dental benefits as possible. Adding fruit, like berries or kiwi, makes it a sweet treat kids will adore.

2. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains polyphenols, a naturally occurring compound that reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease caused by oral bacteria. These compounds work as an antioxidant to reduce swelling and inflammation. However, they also reduce the amount of enamel-damaging oral bacteria.

While dark chocolate should still be eaten in moderation, it contains less sugar than its milk and white counterparts. Most dark chocolates have two to four grams of sugar for every ten grams of chocolate, while milk and white varieties often contain five or more grams of sugar for every ten.

3. Apples

This delicious fruit contains vitamin C, which promotes wound healing to prevent red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Apples are also fibrous, so they scrub the enamel while they're being chewed. Serve slices after meals, so your little one can wash away food residue, plaque, and mouth bacteria.

4. Gum & Candy With Xylitol

Xylitol is a sweetening agent often used to substitute sugar, and it's found in many candies and gums. Oral bacteria consume sugar for fuel, then create acids that erode the protective enamel and cause cavities. However, xylitol denies bacteria the glucose they need, so they die.

 

If you want help protecting your youngster's smile, turn to Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage. These friendly professionals have experience working with youths of all ages. They understand that children enjoy sweets and will work with you to find a healthy balance that lets your little one indulge without harming their smile. Get more information about their oral hygiene services online, or call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an appointment.

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