The simplest way to prevent decay is complete plaque removal twice daily (by brushing and flossing) and the elimination of sucrose between meals. Active children are less likely to dwell on snacking and it's always better to quench thirst with water.
In place of sugary snacks, substitute foods such as fresh fruit, nuts or raw vegetables. Save sweets for mealtime when your child will clean his teeth afterward. The following are lists of sucrose-containing foods that should be avoided inbetween meals and a list of snacks that may be used as substitutes:
SNACKS TO AVOID HEALTHY SNACKS
Candy, Mints Sugarless Candy & Gum
Cakes, Cookies, Sweet Rolls & Donuts Popcorn
Pie, Pastries Celery and Carrot Sticks
Ice Cream, Sherbet Any Fresh Vegetables
Caramel Popcorn Any Fresh Fruit
Chewing Gum Nuts
Dried Fruits, Raisins, Dates Sunflower Seeds
Fruits Sweetened with Sugar Syrup Wheat & Saltine Crackers
Raisin or Cinnamon Bread Hard Boiled & Deviled Eggs
Jam, Jelly, Preserves & Honey Olives
Sugar-coated Cereal Dill Pickles
Dry Cereal Pretzels
Peanut Butter String Cheese
Chocolate Milk or Hot Cocoa Pizza
Soft Drinks Cheeses and Cheese Dips
Fruit Roll Ups, Fun Fruits and Fruit Snacks Whole Grain or Enriched Breads
Candied or Taffy Apples Bagels & English Muffins
Sport Drinks (Gatorade, etc.) Tomato or Vegetable Juices
Water
Theramints (contains Xylitol)
Theragum (contains Xylitol)
Dentistry now has enough knowledge to completely prevent decay. Our job is to educate parents so you may guide your children to good dental health.