Healthy advice from a kids dentist ‘near me’ in Oakville, ON

Every day, conscientious parents in the Burlington and Oakville, ON area search the internet for a dentist “near me.” They are looking for something more than the lowest cost on dental care for their kids. They want a dentist who takes time to share information that helps them put their children on a lifetime path to oral wellness. The team at Burloak Centre Dentistry shares these tooth-healthy eating tips.

Preventing gum disease

Just like adults, the mouths of children are home to many strains of oral bacteria. These organisms feast on sugars and starches left behind by the food your child eats. Some bacteria produce acidic waste that irritates soft tissues, causing gingivitis and (without treatment) full-blown gum disease.

Produce that is naturally high in vitamin C kills harmful bacteria. These snacks also prompt the body to produce necessary collagen in gum tissues. Good choices include:

• Oranges
• Kiwis
• Cantaloupe
• Papaya
• Strawberries
• Red, yellow, and orange peppers
• Tomatoes
• Sweet potatoes

A word of caution, though – wait at least 30 minutes after your child brushes before providing citrus fruits. That is when enamel is most vulnerable to erosion from high citric acid content.

Balancing pH

Starchy items like bread, pasta, and potatoes, break down into bacteria-attracting sugar in your child’s mouth. Bacteria produce acids that cause cavities. Drinking milk or eating cheese or yogurt reduces acids and raises the pH level in the mouth. Calcium in these foods also helps to remineralize teeth and repair damaged enamel.

Instead of a sweet treat

After age 4, encourage kids to snack on nuts and seeds. Natural oils shield teeth from bacteria and strengthen enamel. At this age, you can also satisfy your child’s sweet tooth with sugarless gum.

For more guidance on keeping your kid’s mouth healthy, schedule an appointment at Burloak Centre Dentistry in Oakville, ON at (905) 581-4436.