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Board-Certified Pediatric DentistVisit Our Website
02
Oct
Kids Dentistry: Understanding Foods that Cause Cavities in Children
When preventing cavities, brushing and flossing are often at the top of your mind—and rightly so! Good oral hygiene eliminates the decay-causing bacteria to keep your child’s smile healthy. However, fighting cavities takes more than one strategy. Proper nutrition is another crucial factor in cavity prevention in little ones.
Triad Dentistry in Greensboro, North Carolina, loves to see children show off healthy smiles. That’s why our pediatric dentists, Drs. Sona Isharani and Shima Ghattan work closely with parents/caregivers, offering guidance on healthy dietary choices and other healthy practices to ensure their children stay cavity-free.
How do cavities form?
Adults and children alike have over 700 species of bacteria in the mouth. Some of these bacteria are good, but others aren’t. Harmful bacteria feed on the sugars and starches in the mouth, and as they do, they release acids. These acids erode the enamel and mix with saliva, food debris, and bacteria to form dental plaque, a colorless film that clings to the teeth. The acids in the plaque further leech the minerals from the enamel. If these minerals aren’t quickly replenished and plaque isn’t removed as often, holes will form in the enamel, causing cavities.
What foods cause cavities in children?
- We all know candies and cookies are bad for teeth, but what about savory carbs like chips? While many parents are wary about sugars, you might have noticed we said harmful bacteria munch on the starches left in the mouth. When starchy foods like white bread or pasta are broken down, they become favorite snacks for cavity-causing bacteria, similar to sugary foods. As a result, these starchy snacks can lead to cavities in little ones.
- Although decay-causing bacteria love carbs, that doesn’t mean you remove starches from your child’s diet. Complex carbs are vital for your child’s balanced diet.
- Fermentable carbs can be problematic because they break down easily in the mouth, unlike complex starches that are further broken down in the digestive system.
So, in summary, these are the common foods that cause cavities in children:
- Candies (No surprise! Candy is high on sugar and is sticky)
- Caramels
- Lollipops
- Taffy
- Cookies
- Chips
- White bread and pasta
- Sugary drinks, including juice and soda
- Pretzels and popcorn
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How can you protect your child from cavities?
While completely eliminating sugary foods from your child’s diet is unrealistic, you can take certain steps to help prevent tooth decay. Try to reduce how often your child consumes sugary foods and drinks. Reducing sugar doesn’t mean they can’t have candy, but they should enjoy it in moderation. Encourage them to choose healthier snacks like fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Also, educate your child why water is a better substitute for juice, soda, or other sweetened drinks.
Besides food, you can prevent cavities in children by:
- Encouraging good oral hygiene habits
- Visiting a dentist regularly for dental cleanings
- Considering dental sealants
- Adding fluoride treatments to routine dental care
Need to learn more about cavity prevention?
Parents love seeing their children enjoy healthy, cavity-free smiles. Triad Dentistry is committed to helping you achieve that goal. Whether you need to learn ways to prevent or treat cavities, our team is here to guide you every step of the way—call (336) 383-1482 to reserve an appointment.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
