As fall rolls around and the excitement of back-to-school preparations fills the air, now is the perfect time to prioritize the oral health of your child or the young person in your life. A dental wellness visit at the start of the school year can set the tone for a year filled with bright smiles and good health. Let Dr. McClatchie and the team at Complete Health Dentistry of Columbus be yours and your child’s guide to a healthy mouth this school year!
The Impact of Nutrition on Oral Health
Did you know? The foods your child eats can have a significant impact on their dental health.
While it is widely known that sugar harms oral health, the frequency of sugar intake is equally important. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), snacking on sugary foods between meals is more likely to cause cavities than eating the same amount of sugar during meals. This is because frequent sugar intake gives bacteria more opportunities to produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. Therefore, if you plan on serving dessert, it is better to do so shortly after a meal rather than a few hours later to minimize its impact on your child’s oral health.
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol found in plants that can help raise the pH of saliva, fighting against tooth decay. Unlike regular sugar, xylitol doesn’t feed harmful bacteria in the mouth, making it a great alternative for those looking to maintain good oral health. We recommend Spry’s products, which include toothpaste, mouthwash, gum, and mints that are rich in xylitol.
Calcium is another essential nutrient for dental health. Found in foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt, calcium helps form and maintain strong teeth and bones. The ADA highlights that calcium is crucial for developing hydroxyapatite, the primary calcium phosphate mineral in bone and enamel. Ensuring your child’s diet includes enough calcium-rich foods can strengthen their teeth and prevent decay.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is also beneficial for oral health. The ADA cites studies showing that increased consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of oral cancer and head and neck cancers. At Complete Health Dentistry of Columbus, we put a strong focus on preventive oral care, and we believe it is never too early to start thinking about the impact that a healthy diet can have on young people as they grow into adulthood.
You can be a good role model for your child by practicing healthy habits at home. By making nutritious choices and prioritizing oral health, you set a positive example for your child to follow, helping them develop lifelong habits that contribute to overall well-being.
Tips for a Healthy Back-to-School Lunch
As you prepare for the new school year, consider these when incorporating nutritious foods into your child’s daily lunches:
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Fiber-rich Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery not only help keep teeth clean but also stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids that attack teeth after eating.
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Calcium Intake: Consider including cheese and yogurt in your child’s diet to ensure they get enough calcium to maintain strong teeth and bones.
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Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Encourage healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, and whole grains instead of candy and soda to reduce the risk of cavities.
We also recommend Juice Plus+ for kids—a simple, effective way to boost your child’s daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Juice Plus+ provides the nutritional benefits of 30 different farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, ensuring your child gets a wide array of essential nutrients. Made from non-GMO produce, Juice Plus+ is designed to bridge the gap between what your child should be eating and what they actually eat.
Juice Plus+ also includes a blend of omega fatty acids sourced from plants, seeds, and algae, further supporting overall health. By becoming a Juice Plus+ customer, you can gift Juice Plus+ to any young person between the ages of 4 and 25 at no cost, only covering the shipping fee of $12 every four months. This is a great way to add extra nutrition to your child’s diet. If you’re interested, ask Dr. McClatchie about Juice Plus+ today!
Considerations like nutrition can be instrumental in preventing cavities and tooth decay down the line. Our team at Complete Health Dentistry of Columbus are committed to helping your child maintain a healthy smile through comprehensive dental care, including nutritional guidance!
Schedule an Appointment Today
As you prepare for the new school year, don’t forget to think about oral health. Our dedicated team is here to ensure that your child, grandchild, or even yourself, starts the school year with a healthy and beautiful smile. Preventive care today can lead to a lifetime of good oral health.
We invite you to schedule an appointment with us to see the difference we can make. Call us today at (614) 885-3602 or visit our contact page to request an appointment. Let’s make this back-to-school season the start of a healthier, happier year for your family!
