Sugary drinks – not so good for toddler’s teeth
Many parents may think that those baby teeth will fall out anyway, and some parents may not be concern about those little teeth. While it is true that those first baby teeth will eventually fall out, however, tooth decay can negatively impact your toddler’s health and wellbeing. A problem in early childhood tooth decay can arise from drinking too many sugary soda and juice beverages. These sugary drinks are so prevalent on our supermarket shelves that it is almost impossible to avoid buying. According to the USDA, a healthy sugar daily intake should make up no more than 10% of our daily calories. Giving our children sugary juices and soda during meal time can add up quickly.
How does sugar contribute to tooth decay?
A toddler’s mouth is full of microbes. Consuming sugary drinks contributes to tooth decay by promoting bacteria to grow. The bacteria get their energy from the sugar in the foods and drinks we eat. The bacteria metabolize the sugar into energy and as a byproduct produces acids. The acids produced by the bacteria damage teeth, cause cavities, tooth sensitivity, and toothaches.
Choose alternative beverage to avoid toddler tooth decay
The obvious choice to avoid tooth decay from sugary beverages is to not buy or give them to our children. This is not as practical as it may seem. The occasional sweet drink can be a pleasant and joyful experience for toddlers. As parents, we can make better food choices by buying reduced sugar juices and avoid soda altogether. For example, a glass of apple juice can contain as much sugar as soda. Nutritionally, the apple juice is a much better choice than a soda, but frequently drinking sugary juices can contribute to tooth decay. Making good food choices for your toddler can keep them active and healthy.
Some examples of tasty alternative beverages to sugary juices and soda are diluted juice, unsweetened flavored water, and milk. Diluting fruit juices can reduce the amount of sugar your child consumes. For picky toddlers, adding an unsweetened flavored to their water can make drinking more enjoyable. Although milk contains many types of sugars, the calcium found in milk promotes and build stronger teeth and bones. Plain water is a better option if you want to avoid sugar altogether.
Helpful tips to reduce tooth decay with sugary drinks
Additional steps you can take to help your toddler avoid tooth decay when giving the occasional sugary drink.
- Teach them to drink, not sip. Sipping gives bacteria more time to metabolize the sugars. Instead of putting juices in their sippy cup, fill the sippy cup with water.
- Use a straw. Drinking from a straw reduces sugar contact on the teeth.
- Drink juices only during meal times and avoid sugary drinks before bedtime. Avoiding sugary beverages after meal times can reduce or prevent tooth.
- Regular check-ups and exams can detect a problem earlier, and preventive measures can be taken.
Making good beverage choices can prevent early childhood tooth decay and promote healthy habits. Ready to schedule your child’s dental appointment? Be sure to contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for your appointment.
