Alpharetta Children's Dentistry

In the summer it’s easy to run to the fridge for a soda when you’re thirsty or grab a Popsicle when you’re in need of snack.  Free of their school lunchrooms and mom-packed lunches, kids often times will spend their summer taking full advantage of the unmanned refrigerator and the sweet snacks inside.  However, giving kids this freedom can lead to a myriad of dental health issues, including unwanted cavities.  This summer, stock your fridge with teeth friend foods and limit the sugary drinks, chips, breads and hard candies.

Here are just a few of the foods that promote healthy teeth and a big, bright smile:

• Green Tea. Full of antioxidants that prevent plaque from adhering to your teeth, Green Tea also contains fluoride, which helps protect tooth enamel from decay. 
• Milk and Yogurt. Packed full to bone-strengthening calcium, milk and yogurt have a low acidity to minimize dental erosion. 
• Cheese. This tooth power food balances your mouth’s PH, rebuilds tooth enamel and kills bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.
• Fruit. Fruits high in vitamin C, like apples, oranges and strawberries, keep gum tissue strong and healthy. Firm and crunchy fruits are also helpful since they typically contain more water to help naturally dilute their sugar content. 
• Meats and Eggs.  Meats contain calcium and phosphorus, which are important helpers to replenishing minerals in the teeth stripped away by acidic foods and liquids. 
• Lots and Lots of Water.  Water will help rinse away excess food residuals and sugar from liquids when brushing isn’t an option.  It’s important to drink plenty of water during the day  keeps you and your gums hydrated for the best smile possible!