Good Habits for Great Teeth for Kids
~ Calcium builds strong teeth
There are many different choices for calcium in the diet. Dairy is always a good option. When dealing with dairy products they should be low fat. Milk, yogurt and cheese are excellent sources of calcium.
Broccoli is another good choice. Covered in a low fast cheese sauce is a good way to introduce a child to cooked broccoli. Creamed broccoli soup is another simple and easy choice.
Bok choy is both high in calcium and makes a quick wrap for sandwiches. Spread a little egg salad, tuna or ham salad on a piece and enjoy a healthy snack or lunch.
~ Crunchy foods act as natural teeth cleaners
Raw vegetables can not replace brushing and flossing, but these do help to scrape away plaque and clean gums in between brushing. So why not turn carrots, cauliflower, snap peas, celery and fresh green beans into treats. Eaten raw these vegetables help promote healthy teeth and gums. They are a treat a parent can always say yes to.
~ Gingivitis is formed from different types of bacteria that collect in the mouth.
Vitamin C helps to control the bacteria. When eaten in its natural and raw form fruit also provides collagen for the gums. Fruits that are particularly good are papaya, limes, oranges, strawberries, cantaloupes and kiwis. Remember to wait thirty minutes after eating citrus to brush the teeth.
Children over four years of age get excellent benefits from eating nuts and seeds. The oils in the seeds actually strengthen the enamel on the teeth. They also have some fats that coat the teeth helping of fight against bacteria settling on the teeth. Some good options are pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seed and a wide assortment of nuts.
~ Brushing and flossing
Brushing begins before teeth even arrive. There are special brushes for infants. This is a habit that need to be taught. Flossing will be the hardest for the child to learn, but brushing can start fairly early. There are products that color areas that need to be brushed. This is also helpful for adults when they must finish up
So why not present children with a wide assortment of choices that are good for the teeth. Perhaps the candy discussion will not have to happen much because it is not a part of the regular diet. It seems much more practical than spending all day saying no to the food choices they may present.
Published by trenna hiler
I have spent half my life wandering and the last half I am spending trying to capture where I wandered. I write and read and perform the basics of life! View profile
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