The Role of Diet in Cavity Prevention

September 08, 2008

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The Role of Diet in Cavity Prevention

by Amy A. Napierala, D.D.S.
reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Diet is a key factor in preventing cavities. Any food that can be broken down into sugars--including all carbohydrates--also can serve as the main supply of nutrients for the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Parents know that they should limit sugary snacks and other carbohydrates, but they don't always realize that how often their children eat such treats has a greater impact than the total quantity of sugar they consume.

Every time someone eats, an acid reaction occurs inside the mouth as the bacteria digest the sugars. The reaction lasts approximately 20 minutes, during which time the acidic environment can destroy tooth structure, eventually leading to cavities. However, there are several things you can do to prevent the tooth destruction that results in cavities.

Limit frequency of meals and snacks. Most school-aged children should have three meals and only two or three snacks per day.

Avoid continual snacking. Have your child sit down and finish a snack instead of continually munching on small bites throughout the day.

Encourage brushing and rinsing. Have your child brush his teeth or at least rinse his mouth with water after each meal or snack.

Watch what he drinks. Water is the healthiest beverage for teeth, but milk and 100 percent fruit juices are also good choices. Soda pop, sports drinks, Kool-Aid, sweetened iced tea or lemonade, and chocolate- or strawberry-flavored milk all contain lots of sugar and should not be served routinely.

Make a treat part of a meal. To reduce acid reactions, try to incorporate a treat with lunch or dinner, instead of serving it a couple of hours later as a stand-alone snack.

Choose nutritious snacks. Get your child used to eating healthy foods, such as fruit, cut-up raw vegetables, yogurt, cheese, and pretzels as snacks.

Avoid sticky foods. Watch your child's intake of sticky foods like fruit roll-ups and caramel. These food items linger on the tooth surface, causing the acid reaction to last longer and pose a higher risk for decay.


RELATED INFORMATION

			Cavities: An Overview
			Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
			Dental Care

Created December 20, 2000
Reviewed December 21, 2000

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