Kids in Massachusetts love munching on sugary, crunchy, and hard treats. While these are mouth-watering and tasty, they can cause long-term damage to their teeth. The enamel is the most important part of your teeth. The crucial fact about it is that it will not grow back once it has been damaged or dissolved.
Therefore, you should start teaching your kid about the importance of taking care of their teeth from an early age. It is also important to schedule a trip to the dentist in Easton, MA, at least twice a year.
Five helpful tips to protect tooth enamel.
- Avoid acidic, sugary food and drink.
Acidic and sugary food items can cause your enamel to break down. The bacteria grows very rapidly and causes damage to the enamel. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid consuming such foods and drinks.
Sports drinks, soda, pastry, and candy can all erode your tooth enamel. If you can not keep away from such food items, at least limit their consumption. If you love sipping soda or energy drinks, use a straw instead of directly sipping them from a glass.
- Take calcium-rich foods.
Calcium is not only important for your teeth but also for your bones. It neutralizes the harm done by acids to your teeth. Milk is the best source of calcium. Include dairy products in your child’s diet to enhance their calcium intake. If your child refuses to drink milk, try giving them other calcium-rich foods such as soybeans, almonds, cheese, etc.
- Get an adequate amount of fluoride.
Fluoride is very essential for your teeth. It helps keep your teeth white, strengthens them, and prevents tooth decay. Give fluoride supplements and use fluoride-based toothpaste that is appropriate for your child’s age.
It is important to know that taking fluoride in excess amounts can damage your teeth. Therefore, make sure you are giving your child the right amount of fluoride.
- Do not overbrush.
Many people think that brushing their teeth more harshly and vigorously helps protect them from cavities and decay. This is not true. Brushing for a longer period damages your enamel and exposes the underlying lawyer, the dentine, to various bacteria and microbes.
Ask your child not to brush their teeth for more than two minutes. Give them a soft-bristled toothbrush and teach them to brush gently in circular motions all around the corners of their mouth.
- Limit citrus.
Limit your child’s citrus intake if you are serious about protecting their teeth’s health. Excess citrus can damage the enamel and make them weak. Lemons, oranges, etc., are some citric fruits that your child should consume in a limited amount.
If your kid is experiencing tooth pain, decay, or cavities, consult with a dentist today!